“Alice in Wonderland” is a story that most of us are familiar with, but how many of us really know the original story?

 “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” written by Charles Dodgson under the pen name of Lewis Carroll, is a bright, lively and fun fairytale, unlike Tim Burton’s recent film.

The DVC drama department’s version, directed by drama chair Ed Trujillo, is not an interpretation of the story. It is Lewis Carroll’s novel translated onto the stage.

After reading the original novel, I could not help but wonder, “How will they portray a story that contains so many unrealistic elements on a stage?”

Surely it is simpler to create a false reality on film with special effects.

Having said that, the actors, crew, makeup, lighting, props and costumes exceeded my expectations; this story was exquisitely presented.

It was the simple things, such as the trap doors, the spinning set, and the movement of props to represent Alice’s ever-changing height, that were subtle and brilliant.

As far as makeup and costumes were concerned, they were as amazingly absurd as the characters. Things such as the giant dog and the large caterpillar on the staircase were brilliant.

It is no wonder these actors and actresses were able to get so into character.

The acting was one of the most impressive aspects of the entire show, and even the less-substantial roles such as the crabs, the cards, and the jury, were all so dedicated to the insanity of it all.

Thanks to the narration by Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, played by Chad Ellis and Brady Hold, the audience is constantly involved in the story, and cannot help but love their charismatic characters.

Although all the acting was amazing, the tea party scene was by far the most spot on scene.

The Mad Hatter, the March Hare, the Doormouse, and Alice could not have been any better.

Alice, played by Atessa McAleenan-Morrell, produced a stunning performance. Her British accent never faltered, and she truly captured the innocence of Alice and the hilarity of the entire story.

The Mad Hatter is a character that many people are familiar with, and Justin E. Johnson provided the audience with great comedic “madness.”

But it was the March Hare, played by Jon Borg, that I could not get enough of. His constant insane rambling and shouting kept me laughing the entire time.  

Even if you are not familiar with the story, this play will keep you entertained, laughing, and wanting more.