The latest show at Disneyland Paris, “Alice & The Queen of Hearts: Back to Wonderland,” delights guests with a unique integration of French Sign Language (LSF). Premiering in May, this modern interpretation of the classic “Alice in Wonderland” elevates the guest experience by incorporating a LSF performer into the heart of the performance.
Integration of French Sign Language (LSF)
“Alice & The Queen of Hearts: Back to Wonderland” marks the first time French Sign Language is woven into the whimsical world of Alice and her friends. The LSF performer portrays the Dormouse, a key figure in the Mad Hatter's legendary tea party. Throughout the show, the performer seamlessly shifts allegiances between Alice and the Queen of Hearts, adding depth to the narrative. Using a blend of pure adaptation and Chansigne—where song lyrics are expressed in sign language to the rhythm of the music—the dreamy essence of Alice and the rock-infused character of the Queen of Hearts are vividly brought to life.
Creative Process and Collaboration
Working with the LSF performer was a cornerstone of the show's development. Her contribution went far beyond mere translation—she infused the role with her personality and humor, resulting in a vibrant and joyful performance that aligns perfectly with the artistic direction of the entire show. The performer embodied the Dormouse and stepped into other roles, such as the Mad Hatter and Alice, to help the audience better follow the story.
Filmic Implementation
Due to the complex stage layout and simultaneous actions, the show's creators decided to pre-record the LSF performer's scenes. This approach ensured optimal image quality and allowed the seamless integration of graphic effects, which blended the character effortlessly into the visual identity of the show.
Project Duration and Process
The project spanned nearly a year. From the completion of the script and song lyrics to the final film shoot, it was an intense and enriching journey. Preparations included breaking down the show into segments, adapting each part to align with the dynamics of sign language, and incorporating the unique vision of the LSF performer. In the end, the entire performance was filmed in a single day.
Enhancing the Guest Experience
The integration of French sign language in “Alice & The Queen of Hearts: Back to Wonderland” represents a significant advancement in inclusivity for shows at Disneyland Paris. Deaf and hard-of-hearing guests can now dive deeper into the story and fully enjoy the performance. The addition of this new character and the extra layer of emotional expression enriches the overall experience, fulfilling the core aim of any artistic creation.
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