York Little Theater Presents ALICE IN WONDERLAND 5/14-23

Opening May 14, YLT's original production of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland is based on the Lewis Carroll classic novel which tells the story of Alice, a young girl who falls down a rabbit hole and is trapped in a world of bizarre creatures and fanciful adventures. Alice plays with logic in ways that have given the story lasting popularity with readers of all ages, and is considered to be one of the best examples of "literary nonsense." The book has never been out of print, has been translated into 125 languages, and there have been more than 100 editions. This live stage version opens when interest in this beloved story is heightened because of the release of the 2010 Tim Burton film, Alice in Wonderland, which stars Johnny Depp. YLT's stage version, written by Michael Crone, is similar to the Disney animated film in that is combines both Alice stories, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass.

The production is co-directed by Allison Weaver and Craig Smith. This production marks Weaver's directorial debut. "This is an awesome show," says Weaver. "Alice matures throughout the show from living in a world of imagination to being ready to face the real world." Weaver says the production is full of "everyone's favorite characters, great humor and adventure." The show is suitable for all ages and features "an hysterical tea party scene," as well as some exciting sword fighting.
YLT's local cast of 26 includes Julie Difebo as Alice, Jarik Hieronymus as White Rabbit, Mary McCleary as Queen of Hearts, Joellen Flury as March Hare, and Lyle Hieronymus as Mad Hatter. "This is an amazing, talented, experienced cast," says Weaver. Unique to this production is that playwright Michael Crone is also a cast member, portraying Cheshire Cat.

The set design, with its specialized effects, is by Mary McCleary, Michael Crone and Amanda Jones. Some of their challenges include set pieces which will change in size. "We have growing and shrinking set pieces; Alice falling down a rabbit hole; a 4-foot high mushroom; a disappearing cat; and a mysterious Jabberwock to contend with," explains Weaver. "The Jabberwock is particularly challenging because it's a completely fictional creation-we can decide for ourselves how it should be portrayed."

Performances are on May 14, 15, 21, and 22 at 7 p.m.; and on May 15, 16, 22, and 23 at 3 p.m. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland is part of YLT's 2009-2010 rabbittransit children's series and the Columbia Gas Season, and is sponsored by Fulton Bank. Tickets are $8. More information and tickets are available by calling the box office at 717-854-5715, 11 - 6, Monday through Friday, or visiting www.ylt.org.

York Little Theatre is a nonprofit community theatre which values and nurtures the irreplaceable role of the arts and is dedicated to engaging and enriching its entire, diverse community in the dramatic arts through a broad range of professionally directed, entertaining, stimulating, and sometimes provocative performances.

York Little Theatre is located at 27 South Belmont Street, York PA, just south of Market Street at the intersection of I83. York Little Theatre is a proud member of The Cultural Alliance of York.

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