Celia Liu and Crystal Wang
When was the last time you saw or participated in a play? For many, the answer would be around 2019— right before our world went into a global pandemic. The Covid-19 pandemic not only shut down schools, but it also meant that many people had been unable to participate in a theatrical production for quite some time, going through a 5-year hiatus off stage.
Luckily, Cardozo High School is ready to put themselves center stage once more, proudly announcing auditions for Alice in Wonderland—set to take the state in 2024. English and theater teacher, as well as dean, Ms. DePalo, who is in charge of the play, worked hard to make do with what she could. Ms. DePalo shared how this was an extremely important production for Cardozo. “We’re reviving everything after Covid for the first time,” she explained. “It’s all about the comeback, and it’s all about having fun after such a long pause without any performances.”
But why Alice in Wonderland? What makes it so special? Alice in Wonderland has many adaptations, but the story always follows the same formula: Alice wanders too far, and ends up in Wonderland, where she meets a cast of zany characters belonging to another world. Her adventure can change depending on the adaptation, but there are many common reoccurring characters; such as The White Rabbit, the Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat, and the Queen of Hearts.
Ms. DePalo explained that she had chosen Alice in Wonderland because of how unique it was. “It has a little bit of everything for everyone, and can be molded to adapt to the different traits of the people at our school…it’s corny, it’s silly, and it’s just something anyone can enjoy.”
Two long-time acting enthusiasts were especially happy to be able to experience the life on stage again. Summer Hernandez Cordova, a freshman who wishes to get the role of Alice, revealed that she has a special connection to the character. “She’s curious, and she discovers a lot of things herself…including her hopes and dreams.”
Cordova is extremely passionate about acting, sharing her experiences with The Verdict, “I was on Broadway’s Aladdin Junior,” she recalled fondly. “And I’ve acted in a horror film last year.”
Maryame Richards, a senior at Cardozo, is equally as happy to be back on the stage. “I really just applied for any role,” she explained. “I’ve been in productions throughout elementary and middle school…but I haven’t been able to do any of that in high school. I wanted to do something new and fun, considering I missed out on plays due to Covid. It’s my last year here, and I wanted to theater one last time!”
The revival of Cardozo’s theater will be the start of something new. Alice in Wonderland is just the beginning of the re-establishment of theater at our school and will become another thing to look forward to.
Don’t miss the play—Alice in Wonderland is set to appear on stage on May 8 and 9!
