Miiya Alexandra stars in Mercury Theatre’s summer production of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, reimagined by Olivier award-winning playwright Mike Kenny with music by Ivan Stott.
Emma Earle directs Ruby Ablett as Alice, Miiya Alexandra (Dora/Doormouse), Hannah Azuonye (Carol-Louise/ Caterpillar/Cheshire Cat), Rosalind Ford (Mum/Duchess), Natasha Karp (Queen of Hearts/Ms Head), Tom Moores (White Rabbit/Mr Buck), Jamie Noar (Tweedledee/King of Hearts), Mike Slader (Harry/Mad Hatter) and Loris Scarpa (Tweedledum/March Hare).
The production opens on Wednesday 3 August at the Mercury Theatre and runs until Sunday 14 August, with previews from Friday 29 July.
You’re appearing in Alice in Wonderland, what can you tell us about this production?
I can’t give too much away but you can expect a wild ride with music, colourful costumes and a fresh new take on an already brilliant classic.
What was it about Mike Kenny’s adaptation that attracted you to the role?
It takes the novel from the 19th century and makes it relatable to the chaos of modern-day life. I also love cakes and to sleep, and my character enjoys both of those things.
Tell us a little about your character(s)?
Dora and the dormouse are both very lovable and determined in their own ways; Dora to pursue her dreams to own a chain of tea shops and the dormouse finding ways to sleep in peace without the Mad Hatter and Hare constantly waking her up!
The cast is led by actor musicians, what opportunities and challenges does that present for the production?
Every rehearsal in an actor musician show is essentially a sitzprobe and you always get to enjoy the full band sound which I absolutely love. I try to find different ways to incorporate my instrument into my storytelling so it doesn’t just become accompanying, and that can be tricky especially if I have to dance while playing.
What are you looking forward to most about performing at the Mercury Theatre?
We had an incredible model box viewing at the start of the rehearsal process and I can’t wait to have every element of the show in place, lighting, set, sound, costumes, and share that magic with the audience.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Alice in Wonderland?
What are you waiting for?!
