“Wonder in Aliceland is a semi autobiographical piece about two close female friends, navigating life through their late 20s to early 40s … Within the journeys of these two women are the realities of dating; how dating changes with age; the real conundrums facing women dating online; the dangers and realities of going on dates; pregnancy and miscarriage but all discussed with humour and warmth. It calls attention to the prejudices towards women in today’s society, and shines a light on an often-ignored age in a woman’s life.”
Unrestricted View bring their show to Camden Fringe (26-28 August, Hen & Chickens) – read on for more from writer/performer Alice Henley!
Tickets – https://camden.ssboxoffice.com/events/wonder-in-aliceland/
Tell me about your Camden Fringe show! What’s it all about?
Wonder in Aliceland was originally a collection of short stories I wrote during lockdown about my experiences living in London as a single woman. After several drafts it has evolved into a piece about two close female friends, navigating life through their late 20s to early 40s. It deals with relationships, both romantic and plutonic. At times a dark comedic view on the perils of dating in the modern world, it touches upon the metoo movement as the friends discuss the banalities of life and dating. Through to boundaries of consensual sex and rape with the ease of friends who are close. It’s a look into their lives and views from a women’s perspective post #MeToo. Within the journeys of these two women are the realities of dating; how dating changes with age; the real conundrums facing women dating online; the dangers and realities of going on dates; pregnancy and miscarriage but all discussed with humour and warmth. It calls attention to the prejudices towards women in today’s society, and shines a light on an often-ignored age in a woman’s life.
What’s the best thing about being part of a festival like this?
For me it’s the connections you make. You meet so many people who are experiencing the same challenges and also excitement of bringing their own work to the stage. It’s so hard to be heard and seen at times so being given such a big platform to do this is crucial. It can be hard going, especially the last few years so having a moment to share something of your own is really special.
What has your company been up to over the past year of theatre recovery?
I have been writing A LOT. I am also extremely lucky to have a great relationship with the team at the Hen and Chickens Theatre so I have put on several plays there.
Do you have further plans for the show after the Camden Fringe? Or other shows in other spaces?
The next stage for the show would be to adapt it for screen. We have had interest from the Screen Writers Guild to explore this as a tv series, or a film.
Let’s finish on a one liner. Why should I come to see Wonder in Aliceland?
In just over an hour you will laugh, cry and curse, both male and female, this is a play which covers some of the hardest issues with a touch of theatrical magic, and to quote from “Alice in Wonderland”… It’s no use going back to yesterday, because I was a different person then…