Amy Lee Connell is Alice in Epic Theatre Company’s “Alice in Wonderland.”
By Frank O’Donnell, WPRO Arts and Entertainment Contributor
I’ve never dropped acid, but after seeing the current production of “Alice in Wonderland” at Pawtucket’s Epic Theatre, I think I know what it must be like.
This is not The Mouse’s version of “Alice.” These are not cartoon characters going into the rabbit hole. These are living, breathing, troubled people – patients in an asylum, helping Alice confront and move beyond the abuse and trauma that have her trapped.
“When I read it, I thought it was a great idea,” says director Terry Shea. “Alice in an asylum. This is her journey out of being stuck as a little girl.”
The Cheshire Cat sums up the show perfectly. “You must be mad,” he tells Alice, “or you wouldn’t be here.” Using every inch of the space in the studio that houses Epic, six players perform every role, and serve as props and set pieces as well. It’s an inventive take on a tale you know well – and so much more intense than a colorful cartoon. “Imagination is required,” says Shea.
The action is non-stop in this one-act 90-minute play, and played so well by each performer. Amy Lee Connell is the glue holding the show together with her portrayal of Alice. Meghan Rose Donnelly demonstrates wonderful versatility playing the Mouse and other characters. Meryn Flynn plays a dandy Queen of Hearts among others. Ronald Lewis is incredibly athletic throughout, and quite entertaining as the Cheshire Cat. Samantha Gaus brings a lot to each of her roles, and is especially funny as the Caterpillar and Humpty Dumpty. And Shawn Fennell is so intense in each of his roles – especially as the Mad Hatter and the White Knight – his costume is soaked through with perspiration by the end of the show.
“Alice in Wonderland” is fast-paced, intense, funny in spots and worth your time if you’re interested in inventive theater.
Epic Theatre Company presents “Alice in Wonderland” through June 8 in the Hope Artiste Village on Main Street in Pawtucket. For tickets and information, visit www.epictheatreri.org.
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Frank O’Donnell
