“Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Magical Wonderland Stage Production”

An enhanced iteration of the Southern California Ballet’s production Alice in Wonderland will be presented at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts.

A total of seventy dancers, ranging in age from to , will showcase this two-hour ballet on Saturday, April at p.m. and again on Sunday, April at p.m.

“We originally developed this work in ; however, it was not performed until ,” remarked Toby Batley, co-artistic director of SCB. “The entire performance is original — including costumes, set design, and choreography, all set to Tchaikovsky’s music, predominantly featuring 'Swan Lake.’”

“The production is enjoyable and approachable, differing from traditional ballets that some may find somewhat tedious,” he added.

Batley articulated that the narrative of the original ballet integrates aspects from Lewis Carroll’s literary work, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, along with influences from Disney’s cinematic adaptation.

“It is a synthesis of the elements that resonate with us,” he explained. “While it draws inspiration from Disney, we have not managed to incorporate every detail from the book. The focus lies on Alice’s odyssey through Wonderland, along with the various creatures she encounters.”

This marks the second occasion that the ballet studio located in Carmel Mountain Ranch has showcased this production. Batley mentioned that enhancements have been made to the set design, alongside the introduction of new costumes and a newly choreographed scene that enriches Alice’s experience.

Although jazz shoes are utilized during certain sections to incorporate a modern aspect, Batley noted that authentic classical ballet is prominently showcased, particularly in the flower scene where the dancers perform en pointe.

The two principal performers in the flower scene are third-year company members Siena Wei and Emma Litoff.

Wei, years of age, is currently a senior at Del Norte High School and resides in S Ranch. She serves as a flower soloist and plays the card role in the Saturday performance, as well as the White Rabbit in the Sunday performance.

Wei expressed that this marks her inaugural experience in a leading role, and she eagerly anticipates her portrayal of the White Rabbit.

“It is somewhat anxiety-inducing, yet equally exhilarating,” Wei remarked. “The character embodies a high level of energy and is immensely enjoyable to portray.”

She elaborated that the White Rabbit appears consistently throughout Alice’s adventure, providing support to Alice during various dance sequences.

In the role of the White Rabbit, she dons ballet flats; however, when portraying a flower and a card, Wei stated that she has the opportunity to perform on pointe, a technique she has practiced for no less than six years.

“I appreciate how it presents a significant challenge while also being highly enjoyable,” Wei commented regarding her experience dancing on pointe.

Litoff, years old, is currently a senior at Rancho Bernardo High School and Carmel.

Resident of the ranch, she portrays the Queen of Hearts and Edith, Alice’s sister, in the Saturday performance. Additionally, she takes on the role of a flower soloist and a card character during the Sunday show.

The Queen of Hearts marks her inaugural lead role.

“The character of the Queen is quite enjoyable to play as she embodies a royal demeanor, exuding poise and propriety; however, her sudden bouts of anger add a humorous dimension,” Litoff remarked. “As the ruler, she perceives herself as superior to others, yet those familiar with her often mock her for being excessively self-absorbed, egotistical, and living in an isolated bubble surrounded by her obedient followers.”

Litoff expressed.

A significant amount of rehearsal time has been allocated to exploring and refining their characters.

I must maintain intense concentration when I experience anger, she articulated, describing how she harnesses that feeling by picturing her response to an individual in the real world who has provoked her ire.

I employ that emotion to inform my character, Litoff remarked.

Observers who pay attention to her behavioral traits as Edith will notice some reappearances in her portrayal of the Queen. This is a deliberate choice on her part, she clarified.

Edith represents the gentle and naive elder sister striving to impart her principles and lessons to Alice, who, regrettably, does not heed her guidance.

In Summary

In conclusion, Litoff’s portrayal of the Queen of Hearts not only showcases her undeniable talent but also highlights the complexity of a character steeped in both grandeur and humor. As she navigates the royal facade of poise juxtaposed with the comical realities of her ego and isolation, audiences can look forward to a captivating performance that promises to leave a lasting impression. This inaugural lead role marks an exciting milestone in Litoff’s career, and we can’t wait to see how she brings the whimsical world of Wonderland to life. With her multifaceted approach to such a beloved character, it’s clear that the Sunday show will be a delightful experience for both young and old, reminding us all that even those with crowns can have a humorous side.