playbill vip

150 years ago a seemingly simple child’s tale was published and it made an enormous impact on the world. One of the most enduring books, it has never been out of print since 1865 and has been translated into over 175 languages. It is a story that was written for a child, but is not a children’s book; not really. It is popular because it deals with those things we all deal with and always have. Finding our identity and meaning in a world where the rules of the game and the meanings of things sometimes seems very unreal and absurd. As we find our way through Wonderland, Alice moves from pondering the caterpillar’s question of "who ARE you?" to knowing exactly who she is. Her confidence is raised and ultimately she claims her position on the throne, knowing who she really is. It is a journey we all go through in life at one time or another. It is this reason Alice in Wonderland has appealed to so many generations. It is a universal story with many layers of meaning one can come back to time and time again. 

My own journey down the rabbit hole of this play has been very rewarding. I have been blessed with one of the most dedicated, creative, generous and fun to be with cast and crews one could hope for. I am a better person for having worked with all of them. This production brought together over 65 people from International Falls and created a community that worked together for a single purpose of bringing to life a classic tale. The magic of theater is not just in the lights, music and acting on opening night but the forging of bonds and unity of purpose that comes from creating art on the stage. Ranging in age from 6 to over 65 and covering many social circles of our town, the Borealis Bards production of Alice in Wonderland lived up to our slogan: "Building Community, one show at a time". We proved that working together, great things can happen. 

By being here at the show tonight you, the audience, are a part of our community now. We thank you all for coming tonight and seeing the result of the many hours of work by your neighbors and friends. Enjoy the evening and remember what the Dormouse said...what did the Dormouse say?