Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – “Alice in Wonderland” is already a historical story of sorts. Now, mix in the backdrop of England during the second World War.
That’s partially the story of “Alice by Heart” — put on by the Active and Creative Teen Theatre, this weekend at the Hoogland Center for the Arts.
“Alice and Alfred have been childhood friends, and the book that they used to read together growing up was ‘Alice in Wonderland,'” said Payne Osbourne, who plays Alfred, on the WTAX Morning Newswatch. “Alfred has been diagnosed with tuberculosis. In order to try and make the most out of the time they have left, Alice decides to read ‘Alice in Wonderland’ to him. They just kind of take on the roles of the characters in the story.”
Alice is played by cast member Kierie Pickett.
“Alice loves to drag out every scene that they have together, and just have a blast with Alfred,” said Pickett. “She likes to change the story to have her own way, kind of.”
It’s all musical, part tragedy, and part love story. Both Pickett and Osbourne say it’s a unique way to learn history, and to learn about love.
Performances are at 7:30 Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night.
