Alice in Wonderland

A favourite fantasy story for children is being brought to life on the Sheringham Little Theatre stage this summer.

The venue’s youth drama group for 12 to 18 is presenting Alice in Wonderland from July 20-21.

A 13-strong cast will recreate Alice’s magical trip down a rabbit hole into a wacky world where she meets a range of strange creatures and kooky characters from the grinning Cheshire Cat to the beheading-mad Queen of Hearts.

Director Ellen Waite said the youngsters had been working hard on the show – an adaption of Lewis Carroll’s Victorian classic by Brainerd Duffield – since Easter, with some combining it with studying for GCSEs and A levels.

“I am really proud of their efforts, particularly learning lines that are in amazing poetic language which they are not used to.”

The title role is being performed by Little Theatre regular Attia Law a “veteran” of many youth and community “am dram” performances despite being just 17 years old. The Paston College student from Sheringham has been performing there since she was five, making her debut in a youth panto in the double role of ugly step sister and runaway horse.

One member of the theatre’s younger drama group for eight to 11s, nine-year-old Alexis Pistorius, was chosen to play the Dormouse.  Her mum Charlotte Pistorius is props maker and helping with creative decisions, while Lucy Connor is assistant director and stage manager.

Ellen added: “Our Act One youth groups provide an informal, fun space to explore creativity, grow in confidence and socialise in a safe space. We are proud to be able to nurture performers and future professionals but also just present a space for children and teenagers to develop other skills like communication and confidence.”

Alice in Wonderland shows are at 7.30pm on Sunday July 20 and Monday July 21. For tickets visit www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com or call the box office on 01263 822347.

Act One youth drama groups will close for the summer after the show, and resume on September 8 each Monday night in term time. For Group 1 (ages  8-11) and Group 3  (11-12) no need to book just turn up. A Focus Group (12-18) more focused on acting training, is entry via audition only, email hannah@sheringhamlittletheatre.co.uk for more information. Sessions are £5 at the Lighthouse Community Church.