Written by Mike Batt, this was a musically fascinating multimedia extravaganza utilizing some amazingly complex projection, based on the nonsense poem of the same name, by Lewis Carroll. Overly harsh reviews and lack of funds to support the expensive running costs sank the adventure before word of mouth had rescued it, as the public response was opposite to the critics.
Mike Batt achieved something no-one else has attempted – writing the book and music, designing the projections & set and co-directing the show. As a piece of multimedia art, it remains stunning. It may not be traditional ‘musical theatre’, which may be why it was judged harshly by the critics.
Video – Concert version (1987)
1st April 1987: Royal Albert Hall, London
Starring Mike Batt, Billy Connolly (The Bellman), Justin Hayward, Julian Lennon (The Baker), Captain Sensible (The Billiard Marker), Midge Ure, Roger Daltrey, Deniece Williams. London Symphony Orchestra.
Sydney (1990)
Dramatised concert version
Prince Edward Theatre (Previews from 5 October, Opened 24 October 1991, Closed 14 December 1991)
Music, Lyrics and Book by Mike Batt
Directed and Designed by Mike Batt
Co-Director: Jamie Hayes
Lighting Design by Andrew Bridge
Sound Design by John Del Nero (of Imagination)
Production Consultancy: Imagination
Projection and Animation Artwork: Mike Batt
Associate Lighting Designer: Hugh Vanstone
Orchestrations: Mike Batt
A £2 million budget production of the musical opened in London, with a 50 piece orchestra on stage and striking scenic projection and designs. 12,000 animated slides were projected from 152 computer-linked Kodak Carousel projectors arranged around the theatre. Although reviews praised Batt’s visual concepts and Philip Quast as the Bellman, the show closed seven weeks later.
Related Equipment:
Documents
Projection Layout onstage (August 1991)
Click on thumbnail to enlarge
[605kb JPEG]
From Lighting & Sound International
Talk to the Lewis Carroll Society of North America (October 2021)
More information