Havelock community theatre tumbles into Wonderland

Havelock Community Theatre is diving head-first down the rabbit hole with its latest production of Alice in Wonderland—a bright, boisterous pantomime full of belly laughs, whimsical characters, and enough charm to make even the Queen of Hearts crack a smile.

Directed by creative dynamo Sarah Nathan—actor, director (including HTC’s fabulous A Christmas Carol), and Head of Competition at WOW (World of WearableArt)—the show delivers all the classic panto delights: outrageous humour, larger-than-life characters, cheeky asides, and fun for all ages.

This year’s production gathers a remarkably talented team who have poured heart, humour, and imagination into bringing Wonderland to life. Costume Designer Liz Matthews, passionate about fashion and textiles since age 12, has created a colourful parade of quirky Wonderland creatures. Her husband, renowned artist and sculptor Tony Matthews, adds bold vision and impressive scale with inventive set design.

Marlborough Sounds artist Benjamin Tolmie—celebrated for his vibrant, hyper-realistic paintings—contributes extraordinary craft across puppets, props, face-paint design, and other magical touches. The kids and many of their talented co-stars attend Linkwater school – making this a rare opportunity for kids in the region to tread the boards and learn theatre skills.

It’s also a true family affair for the Eagle family, whose boat is moored in Havelock Marina and who spend their summers in the Sounds.

Maia Eagle, 15, shines in the title role—her 20th theatrical production. Fresh from the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe Festival with Nelson Youth Theatre, she brings a wonderfully charming Alice to life.

Her sister Sophia, 17, a seasoned professional dancer, performer and model with WOW, stars as Harry and is thrilled to share the stage with her family. Brothers Alex and Max add mischief, while dad David steals scenes as the delightfully bad Bandersnatch. Mum Haylee lends her professional skills in the backstage crew.

Many of the show’s young performers come from Pelorus Kids Creative, run by drama educator and successful playwright Julia Pointon who makes a memorable on-stage appearance as Mrs Wrong Rabbit. And in a role sure to amuse the entire town, Havelock’s unofficial mayor Ian Cameron brings his trademark theatrical flair to the stage as the Right Royal Queen—an uproarious performance not to be missed.

Rounding out the magic, celebrated New Zealand musician Stephen Leslie performs his original song Alice during the show.

Tickets are expected to go quickly—don’t be late for this very important date! Get them here.