Among his numerous accomplishments, the iconic science fiction writer Arthur C. Clarke was famous for his three laws. The most popular “law” is arguably number three, in which he declared that, “any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”
After watching the fantastic performance of Alice Through the Looking Glass at the National Arts Centre, it occurred to me that there should be an artistic equivalent of Clarke’s third law. For this show is so enjoyable, clever and appealing to all age groups, I flirted with the idea that I was observing cultural magic.
Based on the classic children’s book by Lewis Carroll this play is fantastic. In fact, there are so many things to like about this production I don’t know where to start.
The scene with Humpty Dumpty, for instance, was delightful. (You may never be able to look at an egg in the same way again!) Ditto for the very clever portrayal of Tweedledee and Tweedledum, which included the wonderful live rendition of the classic poem The Walrus and the Carpenter.
Then there was the excellent interaction with the audience. From a cloud of bubbles — you have to see it to believe it — to jellybeans for everyone (seriously, you get free candy), the line between the stage and observing public was joyfully erased.
The acting is also first-rate. Natasha Greenblatt did a great job of portraying Alice, while many of the other cast members also shined. Alex McCooeye’s hilarious portrayal of the White Knight comes to mind, as does Darrell Dennis’ delightful role as the Red Knight.
Now that I have gushed about this great show let me add one caveat. If you are not familiar with this classic book by Carroll then you may be lost by the play’s plot. The surreal moments of the NAC performance, and there are many, may confuse those who are not up-to-date on their Alice in Wonderland knowledge.
With that word of caution aside I will return to gushing praise.
One of the stated goals of this production is to allow the audience and actors to awaken the seven-and-a-half-year-old within. On all accounts they succeeded. With a captivating set filled with beautiful fantasy, this rendition of Carroll’s wonderful fairy tale is pure gold.
Adapted for the stage by the late James Reaney, this play is perfect for all occasions. Whether it is a first date, a cultural outing with a school class, or a holiday excursion with a spouse, friend or family member that you have known for years, this work is a delight to watch.
Alice Through the Looking Glass is playing at the NAC until January 3, 2015. Tickets can be purchased online and start at $32.
