THREE young Port Stephens performers are on a magical journey down the rabbit hole as cast members of a Young People’s Theatre production of Alice In Wonderland Jr.
Xavier Vaughan, a Year 7 student at Irrawang High School, and Isla Bailey and Elizabeth Kilday from Year 8 and Year 7 respectively at Catherine McAuley Catholic College, have been working hard for months on their roles.
This exciting musical adaptation of the beloved classic brings Lewis Carroll’s characters to life in a vibrant, fast-paced show perfect for children and adults of all ages.
The Newcastle-based production captures the whimsy and charm of the original Disney film while adding fresh energy and theatrical magic.
“Our concept explores Wonderland as a dreamscape built from Alice’s own bedroom – a place where the familiar becomes fantastical,” said Director Louise Barcan.
“In Wonderland, everyday objects like teacups, ribbons and books from her room appear as an oversized playground, echoing how children perceive the world when caught between reality and imagination.
“A ribbon becomes a slide, glasses become a swing, knitting becomes a ladder.
“It’s a visual metaphor for growing up and the curious, often confusing process of finding your place in it.”
Off the stage, the three young performers have previously contributed to fundraising projects for Port Stephens charity ‘The Backpack Venture’, which aims to gift backpacks and school supplies to school children in small rural towns across NSW.
Representatives from the charity attended an opening week show and enjoyed a meet-and-greet with the stars after the performance.
Alice In Wonderland Jr runs at the Young People’s Theatre in Hamilton until 24 May.
