Susanna McEwen plays the lead role of Alice in Quantum Theatres adaptation by Michael Whitmore of the classic tale of Alice Through the Looking Glass.

Performed in the picturesque grounds of Hinton Ampner in Hampshire, to get to the outdoor theatre you have to walk through their kitchen garden on arrival is such a treat and the pumpkins were especially impressive.

McEwen was joined by Ally Ilsley and Steven Cunningham who played a wide range of characters from the Lewis Carroll story from the formidable Queen of Hearts, Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee and the White Knight. Each character change saw a new head, hat or wig to distinguish between them and were well received by the audience.

The performance offers an engaging, funny and energetic production of the famous children’s novel. Anyone who has read the books will know the storyline of Alice making her way one tile at a time across the living chess board complete with a river.

Performing outdoors is a challenge however the weather was kind and it was a very nice summer evening. The cast at first was slightly quiet and I couldn’t quite hear. However, as the performance settled in the volume rose and everything was fine.

The stage is set by a large book with the story title centre stage, as the tale begins the book turns and you are transported into the world of Alice. An incredibly effective opening scene.

The production is aimed at families and by looking at the audience the children were aged from 1-16 and from what I could tell they appeared to be engaging and enjoying the performance.

For more information about Alice Through the Looking Glass and other productions currently running by Quantum Theatre please use the link below. Alice Through the Looking Glass is touring through the summer and I can recommend checking if they are performing locally and booking tickets for a lovely evening of outdoor family entertainment.

Four Stars.

https://www.quantumtheatre.co.uk/alice-through-the-looking-glass-1