Melbourne always has something on offer. Whether you're discovering hidden laneway treasures, soaking up the scenery or immersing yourself in culture, Melbourne delivers. In case you didn't know, Alice in Wonderland holds a special place in my heart. Those unfamiliar with this blog may not realise the title draws from my keen Alice fascination. When I learnt an Alice in Wonderland exhibition was heading to Melbourne, I absolutely had to go.
Begin your descent down the rabbit hole in this engaging and immersive showcase. As you make your way down the stairs, a staff member greets you with the 'Lost Map'. This guide assigns you an Alice character and creates a more interactive adventure (I received the Mad Hatter), and it's up to you to figure out how to access the main exhibition. Several entry points exist. True to Alice form, I squeezed through the tiniest door.
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| Join me through the rabbit hole. |
Every chamber reveals further details regarding Alice. As you navigate past the diminutive entrance, you're able to wander through numerous chambers containing historical details on Lewis Carroll and young Alice. My particular favourite? Being able to view one of the original manuscripts of Alice's Adventures Underground. Did you realise that was the former name of Alice in Wonderland?
The immersive journey showcases the Alice in Wonderland ballet wardrobe, tracing the cinematic development from the original black and white film to contemporary Disney classics, the Mad Hatter's Tea Party, roses painted scarlet, and ultimately Tim Burton's interpretation of Alice.
Before your tea arrives, staying true to Alice's spirit, you encounter a puzzle that needs solving. Considering ourselves quite clever, my friend and I were fairly confident we'd cracked it. The problem was that none of the staff knew what the correct solution was. We weren't sure whether we'd completed the full challenge or if there was more to discover.
Once you leave the tea party, make your way to the 'Queen's Croquet Ground' and unleash your playful side painting the roses scarlet. Design your own figure using the provided stickers, scan it, and see your design spring to life. Everyone, from youngsters to grown-ups, will love it.
Witnessing the diverse manifestations and reimaginings of Lewis Carroll's timeless classic was truly remarkable. The show finished with apparel from the Tim Burton films alongside an 18 screen homage to Alice.
The Wonderland exhibition is an enjoyable experience for both grownups and youngsters. Children can take part in the hands-on activities whilst adults relish exploring Alice's development. You will find yourself captivated by this intriguing showcase.
Wonderland Exhibition
WHERE: ACMI, Federation Square, Melbourne
WHEN: 5 April – 7 Oct 2018
Open daily 10am–5pm
COST: Full $25 Family $65 Concession $21 Child $16 Member $20
WHEN: 5 April – 7 Oct 2018
Open daily 10am–5pm
COST: Full $25 Family $65 Concession $21 Child $16 Member $20
Until next time...
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