On March 22, students of Ben Porat Yosef (“BPY”) from grades three through seven performed Alice in Wonderland Jr. to much acclaim. In what is sure to go down as a “very important date” in the history of BPY’s leading theater arts program, the stage was filled with hatters gone mad, rabbits white under the collar, Alices who grew curiouser and curiouser with each scene, a Queen of Hearts who was clearly playing with a full deck (and more), a King of Hearts whose deference to his wild wife came through in spades, Twiddles Dee and Dum (and Dum and Dee), Dancing Mathilda’s, Cheshire cats meow, frolicking flowers, a March 22 Hare, Dodo Birds, Lobsters, and a groovy Caterpillar turned Butterfly that always seemed to zip up the show with some do-dah-day. The production, led and choreographed by the very talented Rebecca Lopkin, founder and artistic director of Envision Theater, was a smashing success, as the cast and crew performed to wild applause and ovations. With the assistance of musical director, Nathan Kruman, the production gave voice to this leading performing arts program’s mission statement: fostering self esteem, individuality, and teamwork in a fun, safe and nurturing environment with hands-on experiential learning. With 31 cast members, it was clear that Ms. Lopkin’s work was a challenge, but the performance realized its own reward. Judging by the maturity, professionalism, camaraderie, and organization of the performance, the integrity and consistency of the set design, and the introduction of a new sound system generously donated by BPY’s own PTO, the fun and eagerness of the cast and crew was contagious and irrepressible. With Ms. Lopkin’s successful own leading role with BPY students now in its third year she is no doubt already looking forward to a vibrant year four on and offstage.

By Steve Rabitz