Joe Barros & Rick Edinger's ALICE IN ALICE'S Gives A Voice to Actors With Disabilities
Lewis Carroll's classic story Alice's Adventures in Wonderland has been freshly adapted in a unique and groundbreaking interactive experience for children in Alice in Alice's.
This new and immersive musical has been gathering buzz since it's premiere at Weathervane Playhouse this summer. Audiences will be delighted to know the show begins a month-long run on August 11th at Alice's Tea Cup and will be performed by a cast of four actors with disabilities.
Out Of The Box Theatrics, Producing Artistic Director, Liz Flemming, shared why OOTB decided to make the choice to hire disabled performers. "Hiring actors with disabilities allows us to create a non-traditional theatrical experience for children that highlights what makes these individuals' contributions both unique and extraordinary to the world of storytelling." The show's creatives went on to talk about how it can cause a positive ripple effect. "We believe that it is vital for children to view those with disabilities as a part of our society."
Actress Alie B Gorrie spoke about how being visually impaired has colored her experience playing Alice. "Wonderland is a place where the norm is flipped on its head. Because of this, I am able to see my disability as an asset in our storytelling, rather than something to mask." She went on to say "It's exciting to step into Alice's world with this cast because our disabilities are truly catalysts for creativity."
Through actor-driven storytelling, this 45-minute musical engages the imaginations of young audiences by using only objects authentic to Alice's Tea Cup and Alice's world (tea cups, utensils, tablecloths, playing cards, etc). Audience members will have the opportunity to assist Alice by uncovering the secrets of Wonderland, enjoying tea time with the Mad Hatter, and even be put on trial by the Queen of Hearts. This adaptation intends to blend iconic moments from the classic story with fresh perspectives, shining new light on a young heroine's journey.
An interactive musical and tea party experience for all ages
Co-Writer, Rick Edinger spoke on how he personally connects with the casting decision. "As a parent of a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder and former parent advocate/ council member for students with special needs within the New York City Department of Education, it is imperative that the theatre community gives opportunity to those with disabilities to be featured in productions such as this. Representation matters. When a child sees someone who shares his or her disability on a stage, an entire world of possibility & self-expression is unlocked... a door is opened. I want this for my son and I want this for all children of NYC."
"We hope to communicate the message that what society views as a limitation, is merely an opportunity for creation," says the musical's creative team. "This is, after all, what this story of Alice in Wonderland is about anyway - experiencing the world empathetically, and discovering it through new eyes."
Alice in Alice's is produced by Out of the Box Theatrics with Founding Producing Artistic Director Liz Flemming, Book, Music, and Lyrics by Joe Barros & Rick Edinger, Direction by Joe Barros, Music Direction by Ilana Atkins, featuring Alie B. Gorrie* as Alice, Matt Stairs, Cara Feuer, and Ellen White*.
Alice in Alice's runs August 11th - September 9th at Alice's Tea Cup Chapter II, produced by Out Of The Box Theatrics. Click here to get your tickets today.
*Denotes member of Actors' Equity Association
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