This week, we introduce you to Guillaume Coignard, the music producer of the new musical “Alice & the Queen of Hearts: Back to Wonderland” at Disneyland Paris. Performed in the newly opened “Theater of the Stars,” supported by EDF, this musical brings fresh energy to the enchanting world of Alice and the Queen of Hearts.
Musical Duel in Wonderland
The show begins with Alice and her friends inviting the audience into their exciting world. Soon, the Queen of Hearts arrives with her team, bringing rock and electric vibes. A musical duel between Alice and the Queen ensues, building tension until the final decision.
Variety of Songs
The musical features five original songs, each presented in a rearranged version. In total, the show includes eight songs, a first for Disneyland Paris since Coignard has been working there.
Instrumental Interludes
Between the songs, the story progresses with instrumental pieces composed by Tyler Koontz, inspired by the melodies of the original animated film. His work also includes unique industrial sound effects created with custom-built instruments made from cans and oil tanks.
Recordings in Nashville
For the soundtrack recording, Coignard traveled to Nashville, known as “music city.” In the renowned Ocean Way Studios, a converted church with excellent acoustics, recording took place over one week, followed by mixing in the next week. The aim was to create a pop-rock soundtrack that dynamically supports the show.
Orchestral Arrangements
The musical accompaniment features a string section and two brass sections. The score alternates between pop and orchestral arrangements, creating a multifaceted soundscape that perfectly complements the narrative.
Nods to the Original Film
The soundtrack includes subtle nods to the themes of the 1951 film. These homages were important to bridge the new with the familiar.
Live Musicians on Stage
A highlight of the show is the live music. Since 2015, live singers and musicians have been an integral part of the shows at Disneyland Paris. For “Alice & the Queen of Hearts,” four musicians perform live, including a guitarist, a keytar player, and two percussionists. These live performances add a special magic and dynamism to the show.
Challenges of the Open-Air Stage
Mixing the music for the gigantic open-air stage was a challenge. Careful planning was needed to determine the number and placement of speakers. The goal was to create an immersive sound environment, with each instrument having a vibrant character that perfectly complements the stage performances.
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