There are many adaptations of Lewis Carroll’s classic “Alice Thorough the Looking Glass”, some grandiose and some not so. Inside Out Theatre’s adaptation falls somewhere in between, veering towards the latter.
Upon seeing the small stage and sparse amount of props, it becomes apparent that this is not a high budget production. So, to mask this fact, they use novel ideas and clever set pieces. Unfortunately, these set pieces rarely work and tend to confuse the audience, especially the children.
Obviously, with a complex book and limited time, Inside Out could not have followed the story to the letter. Instead they decide to put things their way, organising and almost giving a contents page near the beginning of the play. Disappointing, as structure is the antithesis of the Alice in Wonderland series.
The production does have some real bright moments, though. At points, it really captures the feeling of the book. The music, when interjected, is transcendent – almost chilling. Some of the props and costumes are also really effective. The acting is crisp and energetic, capturing some of the essentials – the regality of the monarchy and, in certain scenes, the sheer chaos of the book.
Sadly, there just isn’t enough here to capture and hold a child’s imagination for an hour and fans of the book will find themselves disappointed. There are some real strengths here, but all they serve to highlight is a feeling of squandered talent.
2/5
Alisdair Murray
