Second Studio is continuing their 2024-2025 season by opening their new show “Alice by Heart.” The musical is written by Steven Sater and Jessie Nelson, directed by Randy Jo Sly and music directed by Caden Marshall. Performances take place in the Auditorium Black Box Theatre, Nov. 14-16 at 7:30 p.m. with an additional matinee Nov. 16 at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $5.
The musical is inspired by Lewis Carroll’s original novel “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” and includes themes and characters from the book.
“Alice by Heart” takes place in 1941 during WWII, in which the main character, Alice Spencer, is taking shelter in the London Underground. Her best friend, Alfred, is suffering from tuberculosis and is in quarantine. To help him escape his fate, Alice places them in the world of her favorite book, “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” turning him and others taking shelter into characters from the story.
“My favorite thing has been seeing the relationships between the characters develop over time,” said Sly. “…the discoveries we had during the rehearsal process have been so far-reaching. We’ve really explored that depth, and I think it’s made the show a more elevated piece.”
Because Second Studio is student-run, they have less rehearsal time than other theatre productions within the university. The relationship between the actors and the creative team becomes important as a result.
“Working with Randy Sly and Caden Marshall has been one of the best working relationships I’ve ever had in theatre in my entire life. I’m so glad that I got to do [the show] with team members like Randy and Caden, who are so passionate about this project,” said stage manager Tessa Cheshire.
Because the performance is in the Black Box, the audience will be very close to the actors and will experience how the musical is put together through blocking and prop work.
“Everything is already on stage when you see it. We really don’t go back and grab anything; you don’t see anything new,” said Shay Wilkey, dance captain and cast member. “Everything we use is already out there. Incorporating that into the choreography is super interesting and creatively fulfilling.”
Second Studio’s production of “Alice by Heart” gives an opportunity for people to watch performing arts in a different setting than a mainstage production. Anyone is welcome to watch the upcoming showings.
“The fact that it’s gonna close on Saturday makes me really sad. When it opens though, I’ll be very excited,” said Alana Bowers, lead actor.
Tickets for “Alice by Heart” can be purchased here or at the door. To stay up to date with Second Studio, follow them on Instagram.
Author: Tallon Taylor
Photos courtesy of Second Studio
Editor: Tessa Cheshire
Copy Editor: Kayd Johanson
arts@suunews.net
