Step "Through the Looking Glass" with All of Us Express Children's Theater

Photo credit: Melissa Downs (provided by All-of-Us Express Children's Theater)

The next two weekends will bring a production of “Through the Looking Glass" to the Hannah Community Center. On November 6-7 and November 13-14, there will be performances for all ages.

All-of-Us Express Children's Theater (AECT) has gathered 81 area youth ages six to eighteen to create the performance of this Lewis Carroll classic. Adapted for the stage by Rosemary Nursey-Bray, “Through the Looking Glass” is the sequel to “Alice in Wonderland”. As is the case with all AECT productions, the children take part not only in the acting but in backstage production including set design, costumes, make-up and props.

The timing is just right, as it marks the 150th anniversary of Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland.” In May 2016, a film version of “Through the Looking Glass” will be released in theaters by Disney, the sequel to Tim Burton’s 2010 “Alice in Wonderland”.

One parent of a participant in the show said that she values AECT’s program because they expect all the kids to learn through both behind-the-scenes and onstage roles. They are required to change what their role is with each production, alternating between onstage and behind-the scenes. Michelle Traven, parent of Meera, 10, who is playing the part of The Moon, said “This is her first show. She has loved it...she always comes home from rehearsals very excited.”

Tickets can be purchased in person at the Hannah Community Center box office before each performance, or by calling (517) 333-2580 ext. 0. Tickets are $5 (17 and under) and $7 (18 and over). The performances on Fridays will take place at 7pm and Saturdays at 2pm and 4:30pm. Tickets are for general admission. For more information, please visit the City of East Lansing AECT page.

The production is sponsored by Jackson National Life and Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.