The piece marking the opening of the 2025/2026 season at the Chiado theater is described as an “adaptation of the adaptation of the adaptation” of Lewis Carroll’s namesake story. Although it’s geared more towards adults, director Marco Medeiros views it as a suitable option for parents wishing to introduce theater to teenagers, as stated post-rehearsal.
Though the “true story of Alice,” as per Carroll, is retained, much has been expanded and adapted to contemporary contexts, adds Medeiros, who also penned the lyrics for the production.
The translation and adaptation by Maria João Rocha Afonso, based on an idea by the director, brings a version of Alice with adult anxieties to the stage of Sala Carmen Dolores, the theater’s main venue.
Medeiros, unable to view “Alice in Wonderland” as merely a children’s story, mentions that the protagonist embodies a sense of distress and despair. In the performance at Trindade, she reflects the internal conflict of rejecting societal norms and rules.
The performance persistently echoes the phrase, “To be or not to be,” as Alice—an adult now—journeys from a civilized society into an anarchic world void of rules or governed by ignorance, according to Medeiros.
Echoing elements of dictatorial society, Alice navigates through societal impositions, including the ‘dictatorship’ of social media and television, which enforces rules and censorship, Medeiros elaborates.
This recurring theme drives the frenetic pace marked by its set design, constantly challenging the audience to discern reality from fiction.
Medeiros addresses contemporary ‘dictatorships’ in a society deemed unfree post the ’25 de Abril’, referencing the advent of technology and new forms of control.
This contemporary ‘dictatorship’ is profoundly depicted through the characters, illustrated by the cat’s remark, “I accepted to smile to survive, but that’s not my true desire.”
The director, adopting an objective and fatalistic view, draws parallels between the show’s narrative and challenges faced within the artistic community, leading to some choosing to withdraw.
“Alice in Wonderland” features music and musical direction by Artur Guimarães, vocal direction and music assistance by Carlos Meireles.
The cast includes Alexandre Carvalho, Diogo Mesquita, FF, JP Costa, Mariana Lencastre, Rita Tristão da Silva, Romeu Vala, Ruben Madureira, Sissi Martins, and Soraia Tavares as Alice.
Musicians André Galvão, Artur Guimarães, Carlos Meireles, João Valpaços, Marcelo Cantarinhas, and Tom Neiva contribute to the performance, with Ângela Rocha handling the set design.
Costumes are by Rafaela Mapril, light design by Marco Medeiros, sound design by Sérgio Milhano, and movement by JP Costa, with Rebeca Costa assisting in direction.
Running from Thursday to November 2, “Alice in Wonderland” holds performances from Wednesday to Saturday at 9:00 PM, and Sundays at 4:30 PM. A public discussion follows the October 12 session.
An eve-of-opening rehearsal will be held, with ticket proceeds dedicated entirely to Associação Crescer Bem, a charity supporting children requiring significant hospital care alongside their families.
