Disneyland Paris is expanding its entertainment offerings with the premiere of “Alice & the Queen of Hearts: Back to Wonderland.” This new show presents a modern interpretation of the Disney classic “Alice in Wonderland.” The musical show is being performed at the newly unveiled “Theater of the Stars” in Walt Disney Studios Park and runs from May 25 to September 29, 2024.
Concept and Inspiration
Show Director Matteo Borghi explains the development of the concept: “I wanted to offer our guests an entirely new experience. While 'Mickey and the Magician' is an illusion show and 'TOGETHER: a Pixar Musical Adventure' uses technology to immerse the audience in popular Pixar stories, I wanted to pay tribute to a Disney classic. 'Alice in Wonderland' was an obvious choice, as it is one of the most well-known Disney stories worldwide and is already celebrated in Disneyland Park attractions like 'Alice's Curious Labyrinth' and the 'Mad Hatter's Tea Cups.'”
The Stage and Its Possibilities
The show is presented on an extraordinary stage – 68 meters long and 26 meters deep. “In Wonderland, anything is possible,” says Borghi. This stage, which previously hosted the “Lights, Motors, Action! Stunt Show Spectacular” has been redesigned for the new show. Borghi wanted to create a colorful and rich experience that transports the audience to a new world.
Reinterpreting the 1951 Classic
Borghi and set designer Olivier Dusautoir worked carefully on the visual design to retain key elements of the 1951 film while giving them a modern touch. “Entering this show is like waking up in Wonderland, but in 2024,” explains Borghi.
Telling a New Story
Together with writer Ludovic-Alexandre Vidal, Borghi further developed the story. The plot picks up after the iconic tea party moment from the film. Alice and the Queen of Hearts meet again and compete to be the guest of honor at a new tea party. The Mad Hatter oversees the proceedings in his own unique way.
Close to the Audience and Interactive Elements
To keep the audience closer to the action, the stage was brought closer to the stands. Guests even have the opportunity to influence the course of the story. “That's what makes Wonderland special: you never know what will happen next,” emphasizes Borghi.
Contemporary Messages and Music
The show conveys modern messages through its characters. Alice represents dreams and imagination, while the Queen of Hearts embodies self-confidence and success. This duality is expressed through music and artistic disciplines. “Music is the heart of the show,” says Borghi. Alice's musical style is poppy and cheerful, while the Queen of Hearts embodies classic rock.
Live music and acrobatics
Six singers, including Alice, the Queen of Hearts, and the Mad Hatter, as well as four musicians (two drummers, a guitarist, and a keytar player), provide the musical backdrop. The show also integrates acrobatics, including trampoline and BMX numbers, to underscore the energy and dynamism of the music.
The Return of the Cheshire Cat
A special character, the Cheshire Cat, will also make an appearance. “He will appear when and how he wants,” says Borghi. These surprising moments contribute to the uniqueness of the show.
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