ERIN PEARSON
THE long, blonde locks and love of dressing up meant beauty Gemma Bishop was destined to play a fairy tale leading lady.
From the age of just eight Bishop knew she wanted to play a fantasy character after watching her father perform in Alice in Wonderland nearly two decades ago.
Now the blonde bombshell is living every little girl dream, cast as Alice in a show heading to Geelong this month.
“It’s every blonde’s wish to play Alice and I feel I fit the profile well,” she laughed.
Bishop said the challenging role was made easier by the joy the production brings to the faces of children across the country.
“You’re surrounded by kids who are just lapping up every second of it so it’s hard not to get caught up in it,” she said.
“You go into that play-world of imagination and fantasy.
“I lead the children on a journey to find where wonderland is.”
Bishop said the outdoor setting at Geelong Botanic Gardens would add an extra element of surprise to the classic fairy tale.
Simply bring a hat, some sunscreen and enjoy the performance, she said.
“It’s the most beautiful place for Alice in Wonderland to be put on. The garden is all part of the allure,” she said.
“The caterpillar, king and queen, mad hatter and all Alice’s friends will be there.
“What’s nice is Alice has the journey with the audience so you follow her and she links everything together.
“So often we sit in our lounge and watch telly or go to the movie theatre, but this is a really nice way to introduce kids to theatre.”
Alice in Wonderland is at Geelong Botanic Gardens from December 29 to 31.
For more information see shakespeareaustralia.com.au or phone 1300 122 344.
