The Joffrey Ballet’s latest production, *Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland*, is a feast for the senses—whimsical, surreal, and bursting with color. Choreographed by the brilliant Christopher Wheeldon, this ballet isn’t just a retelling of Lewis Carroll’s classic; it’s a full-blown theatrical spectacle that blurs the lines between classical ballet and avant-garde performance art.
## A Ballet That Feels Like a Dream
Wheeldon’s *Alice* doesn’t just dance—it *transforms*. From the moment the curtain rises, the stage becomes a living, breathing Wonderland. The choreography is playful yet precise, capturing the absurdity and wonder of Carroll’s world. The dancers don’t just perform steps; they embody characters with exaggerated, almost cartoonish movements that make the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat, and the Queen of Hearts leap off the stage.
What’s most striking is how Wheeldon blends traditional ballet with theatrical flair. The production feels like a hybrid of *Swan Lake* and a Broadway musical, complete with dazzling costumes, surreal projections, and even a bit of slapstick comedy. It’s ballet, but not as we know it—and that’s what makes it so exciting.
## Color as a Storytelling Device
One of the standout elements of this production is its use of color. Chicago Magazine nailed it when they said, *"Color tells the story."* The palette shifts from soft pastels in Alice’s real world to hyper-saturated, almost psychedelic hues in Wonderland. The Queen of Hearts’ scenes are bathed in deep reds, while the Caterpillar’s lair glows with eerie blues and purples. It’s a visual feast that enhances the storytelling, making the ballet feel like a living painting.
## A Modern Take on a Timeless Tale
What makes this *Alice* so compelling is its refusal to be just another pretty ballet. Wheeldon injects modern energy into the production—whether it’s through quirky characterizations, unexpected musical choices, or bold staging. The Joffrey dancers rise to the challenge, delivering performances that are technically flawless yet brimming with personality.
If you’re a ballet purist, this might not be your cup of tea (or should I say, your cup of *"drink me"* potion?). But if you love dance that pushes boundaries, that feels fresh and alive, then *Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland* is a must-see. It’s proof that ballet doesn’t have to be stuffy—it can be wild, weird, and wonderfully unpredictable.
So, take the plunge. Follow Alice down the rabbit hole. You won’t regret it.
