The Judy’s lively return of Alice in Wonderland: A Jazz Musical blends vibrant visuals, inventive jazz-infused character homages, and kid-friendly whimsy to create a smart, reimagining that entertains both children and adults.
It’s time to spill the tea about The Judy’s return of Alice in Wonderland: A Jazz Musical. It’s a good time for all. Just ask the Mad Hatter. Before the curtains rose, he wobbled through the theater, splashing tea and taking selfies with Alice fans. “We’ve been doing this show every day for 10 years,” shared the Hatter. “I hear the show is oh-KAY.” (Think Gene Wilder’s Willy Wonka vibes — in a good way.)
Vibrant stage colors meet the dark corners of classic jazz and fringed-dress dance grooves in this original musical. The play features a live jazz band on stage and the musical breaks, both with and without singing, will introduce your child to syncopation, instrumental ensembles, and scat (or as my kid called it, a rap battle). And adults will appreciate the nods to jazz greats. Every character in Wonderland is inspired by a jazz legend. The Caterpillar plays trumpet like Miles Davis. The Mad Hatter channels piano genius Thelonious Monk. The Cheshire Cat? That’s a homage to Dizzy Gillespie. Plus, beloved Portland jazz vocalist Marilyn Keller stars as the Queen of Hearts.
“Why does she need an invitation?” my son asked me. I struggled a bit to translate madness and wordplay into Gen Alpha, but the play makes sure to add kid-friendly breaks and includes the absurdity in accessible concepts like a bubble-filled pepper soup. “He broke the fourth wall, Mommy,” I was later told, demonstrating that despite the chaos, the dialogue was still easy enough to follow and held my kid’s attention.
Kids dressed in blue Alice costumes dotted the crowd, one complete with spoon and mixing bowl. While there is no story prerequisite to enjoy this show, the kids more familiar with the books or movies seemed to have a bit easier time following the plot.
With standout vocals and musicianship, this jazzy take on a classic children’s tale is your antidote for spoon-fed storylines and in-your-face reels. This play will make you think. And that’s a good thing.
If You Go
Alice in Wonderland
Where: The Judy Kafoury Center for Youth Arts
1000 SW Broadway, Suite T-100 (with attached parking garage!)
When: Saturdays-Sundays, now through April 19; shows are at noon and 3 pm.
Length: About 65 minutes with no intermission
Who: Most enjoyed by ages 6 and up
Tickets: $25 for youth and $35 for adults; infants 1 and under are free.
Know before you go: Parking at The Judy is easiest in the attached parking garage. The Schnitzer Stage at the Judy is general admission seating only, so show up early if you’d like your pick of seats. Boosters are available, so every seat is a great one even for the youngest audience members. Outside food and drinks aren’t permitted, but reasonably priced snacks are available at the concessions stand. Clean, gender inclusive restrooms and changing stations make it easy for families to attend. The entire staff is friendly and helpful should you need assistance.