Awarded in Spain, “Alice in the Musical of Wonders” takes the stage at the Coliseu in Porto
A new theatrical version of Lewis Carroll’s tale was considered the Best Family Musical in the neighbouring country and, under the direction of Plateia d’Emoções, premieres in Portugal at the Coliseum this Sunday, before touring other national venues and returning to “Invicta” in time for Christmas.
Is it possible to reconcile the technology of mobile phones, tablets, and other digital objects with books? Is there room for imagination in this digital society? To what extent is our appearance important? What do we invest our time in? Can we grow without giving up imagination and dreams? These are some of the questions that permeate the new theatrical version of the timeless classic by Lewis Carroll, which Plateia d’Emoções is now bringing to various national stages, based on an original idea by Jose Tomàs Chàfer, with text and lyrics by Josep Mollà and original music by Paco Iváñez.
“Alice in the Musical of Wonders,” which has won over a dozen awards in Spain, including “Best Family Musical” at the Musical Theater Awards and “Best Musical” at the Broadwayworld Spain Awards, is set to premiere at the Coliseu in Porto this upcoming Sunday (27th), at 16:30. However, the gift from the artistic company of Vila Nova de Gaia for this Christmas will be touring Mealhada (November 28-30), Amarante (December 4-6), Póvoa de Varzim (December 10-14), before returning to “Cidade Invicta” in time for the festive season (December 16-22).
In the version of the play (70 minutes) that this musical theatre company has on hand, the characters attempt to find answers to the questions arising from the new challenges of an increasingly (dis)information-filled society.
“It is a very current message with which all contemporary families will relate: it seeks to highlight the values of love for literature and the power of imagination in the face of the often excessive influence of multiple screens in our lives,” reveals Fernando Tavares, founder and artistic director of Plateia d’Emoções, which holds the national exclusive rights to the award-winning piece.
“Alice’s grandmother will enter the world of children with the force of a hurricane. With imagination and cunning, she will make Alice’s grandchildren and friends put down their phones and tablets to listen to a fantastic tale she read when she was little, instilling in children a love for reading,” is explained in the plot summary. The proposal is, therefore, a journey full of adventure, colour, and, of course, a lot of music.
“Will the Mr. Rabbit manage to teach his guest Alice the true meaning of the phrase ‘We must make the most of time’? Will Mr Caterpillar, a transformation specialist, manage to change Alice’s hair colour and, above all, convince her that the change must be internal so she can accept herself as she truly is? And will we also have the Mad Hatter, obligated to always be happy for the Queen of Hearts, who will teach us that sometimes we show a happy face, even when we have moments of sadness inside?”
The play has nearly twenty dates set on the calendar. For now.
“Alice in the Musical of Wonders” – Technical Sheet:
Artistic Director/Spain: Jose Tomàs Chàfer • Original Idea: José Tomàs Chàfer • Text and Lyrics: Josep Mollà • Original Music: Paco Iváñez • Artistic Director / Portugal: Fernando Tavares • Staging and Scenography: Fernando Tavares • Musical Direction: André Lacerda • Choreography: Sara Lima • Lighting Design: Fernando Tavares • Lighting Programming and Operation: João Rodrigues • Sound Design: Rodolfo Cardoso • Technical Direction: João Rodrigues • Costumes: Leonor Viana • Executive Production: Cátia Tavares • Stage Direction: Leonardo Lopes • Translation: Helena Durães/Fernando Tavares • Social Media Management: Margarida Pinheiro • Communication: MS Impacto | CAST: Alice – Bárbara Rocha • Mother/Mr. Rabbit – Beatriz Oliveira • Maria/Mr. Caterpillar/Voice Mr. Cat/Middle Card – Teresa Cruz • João/Hatter – Bernardo Alves • Tânia/Ms. Marmot – Maria Maricato • Grandfather/Queen of Hearts – Isabel Garcez • Mr. Frog/Hare/Small Card – Sofia Cardoso • Big Card/Stage Direction – Leonardo Lopes • Piece for ages 3 and up.
Tickets:
- “Alice in the Musical of Wonders,” Coliseum of Porto, October 27, 16:30
- Orchestra Seating – €16
- 1st Tier – €14
- 2nd Tier – €14
- Box – €16
- 1st Box (6 seats) – €84
- Fries (6 seats) – €72
About Plateia d’Emoções:
Plateia d’Emoções is an artistic company based in Vila Nova de Gaia. It debuted in 2015 with the musical theatre production “Cinderella – The Magic of the Musical.” The project continued with major successes such as “Pinocchio – A Musical to Dream,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” “The Three Little Pigs,” “The Wizard of Oz – A Musical to Enchant,” “Via Crucis,” and “Anne Frank – The Musical.” In addition to producing cultural shows for a general audience, the company’s actions also include presenting musicals with educational content aimed at children, schools, and families, and performing in various national venues.
Always confirm with the concert hall or promoter the conditions of access, confirmation of the date or time, ticket place of sale, price, and availability.
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