Don't Be Late for This Very Important Date

For the past two months, students at Lake Zurich District 95's Middle School North have memorized their lines and held rehearsals, all in preparation for presenting the play Alice in Wonderland to their peers, families and friends.

All of that hard work will be on display this weekend as the students present two performances.

"It's just such a dynamic play with such interesting characters," said eighth-grader Emma Ecklund, who will portray the Queen of Hearts.

Rehearsals were held for various characters every day, said eighth-grader Emily Fuller, who will play the role of a servant to the Queen of Hearts.

Rehearsing so much definitely takes dedication, said Ecklund. Eighth-grader Addie Howell added that it's definitely stressful — particularly for Maria Galuppo, who will play Alice.

"It's really hard, but we've been working on it a bunch," said Galuppo, an eighth-grader. She said her job is a lot easier because her fellow actors all know their lines.

Ecklund is looking forward to her role as the Queen of Hearts. To say her character is short-tempered would be an understatement, Ecklund said.

"To quote one of her lines, she's 'dreadfully fond of beheading people,'" said Ecklund, adding that it's fun to be able to portray such an intense character and "let it go on stage."

Howell will portray the Duchess who carries around a baby that is actually a pig.

"She's outgoing, loud and crazy," Howell said. "She's the wise grandma. I help Alice find the Queen of Hearts."

Fuller said her character simply aims to please the Queen of Hearts.

"You get pushed around a lot," Ecklund said to Fuller.

The students will present the play to their peers during an all-school assembly today.

"It's pretty exciting to get up in front of the whole school," said Galuppo.

In all, Alice in Wonderland consists of a cast of more than 40 students and 25 crewmembers, all under the direction of Karen Jaffe.

The play will be presented at Middle School North at 7 p.m. Nov. 4 and 5. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Children under age 5 are free. Tickets can be purchased at the door.