A Czech Original?
Last evening, I saw a very original take on a classic tale titled “Aspects of Alice” showcased in black light theatre. I am not at familiar with Black Light theatre nor with Czech theatre for all that matter. So, I asked a couple of my class mates if black light is solely Czech; the response was mixed. I then asked Prof. Mullen. He was unsure but it was unlike any other performance that he has witnessed outside CR. This has whet my curiosity to want to explore black light and its origins. “Aspect of Alice” is a surrealist take on the classic “Alice in Wonderland”. “Alice in Wonderland” has many elements that some would consider “tripy” from the original story and to use the black light was created that perception throughout the entire production. I wonder if such a technique would be well received in the U.S. This was my first introduction to Black Light and Czech theatre. I am curious to see if there are similiarities between “Aspects of Alice” and marionette. What are the underlying themes? This is to be determined as I experience what else Czech theatre culture has to offer. For now I think it would neat to do a little research on Black Light.
I think the technique as a stand-alone piece would come across as gimmicky in the US. I thin that is why it has been relegated to tourist status here. See my post for further comments.
I also wondered about the connection with Alice in Wonderland. I recently had to watch the movie for a class and after watching Aspects of Alice, I am not convinced there is any connection other than the name Alice and the drug “use”. I am curious about the US acceptance, too. I think it is time to push the US. Why should we have to suffer bc our country has just artist control over us? Doesn’t that contradict “artist freedom”?
Yeah it might be gimmicky in the US, but damn shouldnt american audience get a taste of it. There is such a lack of exposure to different theatre experiences, it think black light should be over there too. Maybe not Aspects of alice particularly, but black light should.