“Alice in Wonderland Jr.” by Wiesbaden’s Amelia Earhart Playhouse (Amelia Earhart Playhouse)
Enter a high-energy whimsical adventure filled with excitement at the Amelia Earhart Playhouse’s production of “Alice in Wonderland Jr.” This family-friendly production, directed by Jennifer Barnes and Kelly O’Donnell, shines as kids of all ages come together to showcase their talent and teamwork in a visually dazzling and energetic performance.
As the show opens, Alice (Rinnah Kim) feels curious and out of place in her world. She is intrigued by the White Rabbit (Jacob Barnes), whose impressive vocal talent and timing set the tone for what is a stand-out youth performance.
“Alice in Wonderland Jr.” by Wiesbaden’s Amelia Earhart Playhouse (Amelia Earhart Playhouse)
The 32-member cast delivers a heartwarming showcase of teamwork, talent and youthful enthusiasm. With actors ranging in age from seven to 18, and from USAG Wiesbaden, Frankfurt International School and local German schools, this is truly a community-based cast. They are a standout group adept at delivering zany lines and maintaining a high level of energy throughout the performance.
The cast of “Alice in Wonderland Jr.” by Wiesbaden’s Amelia Earhart Playhouse (Amelia Earhart Playhouse)
Alice eventually follows the White Rabbit down its hole and into the fantastical world of Wonderland. Along the way she faces challenges, has whimsical conversations and undergoes magical transformations that test her courage and self-discovery. Through these adventures, Alice begins to understand herself in a new way.
Her first challenge finds Alice changing sizes, which is visually represented by two additional actors. First, by eating a cookie she becomes Tall Alice (Mallie Nichols) and then by drinking a potion she becomes Small Alice (Avery Young). This seamless transformation adds to the magic of the story.
“Alice in Wonderland Jr.” by Wiesbaden’s Amelia Earhart Playhouse (Amelia Earhart Playhouse)
The props, sets and costumes truly bring the imaginative world of Wonderland to life. Each character is dressed in bright, colorful outfits that reflect their unique roles in the story. The vibrant colors and bold designs add to the playful dreamlike, surreal atmosphere.
In the garden, we meet a cast of flowers who stand out with their beautiful and elegant costumes. Lily (Veda Macaulay) leads the group with personality, sass and a natural stage presence that nearly steals the spotlight. Soon after, we meet the Caterpillar (Anella Dabriel), who transforms into a beautiful butterfly with delicate wings and lighter attire that aim to represent Alice’s own transformative journey.
“Alice in Wonderland Jr.” by Wiesbaden’s Amelia Earhart Playhouse (Amelia Earhart Playhouse)
“Alice in Wonderland Jr.” by Wiesbaden’s Amelia Earhart Playhouse (Amelia Earhart Playhouse)
As she continues to navigate this strange and unpredictable world, Alice meets a host of eccentric characters like Tweedle Dee (Alice Fuller) and Tweedle Dum (Camilla McGill) whose perfect comedic partnership, synchronized movements and chemistry as a duo make them incredibly fun to watch.
“Alice in Wonderland Jr.” by Wiesbaden’s Amelia Earhart Playhouse (Amelia Earhart Playhouse)
“Alice in Wonderland Jr.” by Wiesbaden’s Amelia Earhart Playhouse (Amelia Earhart Playhouse)
Eventually, Alice encounters the Mad Hatter (Addy O’Donnell) whose iconic oversized hat sets the tone for a raucous tea party. From the moment Alice arrives, the scene bursts with chaotic fun and visual excitement. Caught in the middle of this organized madness, Alice is both bewildered and amused as she tries to make sense of the conversation.
As Alice’s adventure reaches its peak, the madness and excitement only grows and she faces her biggest challenge yet.
““Off with their Heads!” ”
— Queen of Hearts
From the moment that Queen of Hearts (Rowan Jacobsmeyer) steps onto the stage, she commands attention with her powerful voice and dramatic delivery. As the scene unfolds, Alice finds herself at the Queens mercy in a trial that makes little sense.
“Alice in Wonderland Jr.” by Wiesbaden’s Amelia Earhart Playhouse (Amelia Earhart Playhouse)
“Alice in Wonderland Jr.” by Wiesbaden’s Amelia Earhart Playhouse (Amelia Earhart Playhouse)
Amelia Earhart Playhouse is temporarily performing inside the Velvets Theater at Schwarzenbergstraße 3 in Wiesbaden. This small theater creates a cozy environment for the audience to feel closely connected to the performance. Arrive early to secure street parking and great seats. It will also leave you with time to grab a snack or beverage at the bar.
In the end, we have followed along as Alice navigates an unpredictable world but learns something important about herself along the way. In true Wonderland fashion, the ending is just as whimsical and unexpected as the journey itself, leaving the audience delighted.
