Graduating students from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David wowed audiences with a moving and imaginative final year showcase production of Alice By Heart.
THE PRODUCTION, performed by students from the BA Perfformio, BA Theatr Gerddorol and BA Musical Theatre courses, gave the university’s latest cohort of performers the chance to showcase their talents to audiences and industry professionals.
Inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Alice By Heart blended a contemporary score with a story of friendship, resilience, imagination and hope, offering a powerful and emotional theatrical experience.
The show was directed by Welsh theatre-maker Dan Phillips, while musical direction was led by acclaimed Welsh musician Iestyn Griffiths, who guided the cast through Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater’s evocative score.
Griffiths has worked across theatre, television, film, radio and live concerts, with credits including Bat Out of Hell, The Wizard of Oz, Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical and A Night With Janis Joplin.
Choreographer Eddie Ladd also played a key role in shaping the production, developing a distinctive movement style which combined emotional depth with imaginative storytelling.
UWTSD Dance Lead Tori Johns praised Ladd’s work with the students during rehearsals.
She said: “It was wonderful having choreographer Eddie Ladd working with our students, encouraging innovation, collaboration and creative risk-taking throughout the rehearsal process.
“Her unique approach to movement and storytelling challenged the cast to think beyond traditional choreography, developing work that was imaginative, authentic and deeply connected to the narrative, reflecting the industry today.”
For many students, the production also offered an opportunity to work closely with established creative professionals while experimenting with new approaches to performance.
Student Emily Couper said the experience had pushed her in exciting new directions as a performer.
She said: “The process was incredibly rewarding, and I loved collaborating with creatives who are actively working within the industry.
“Performing in a traverse staging was a new experience for me, and exploring physical theatre as a storytelling tool rather than relying solely on dance challenged me in exciting ways. It pushed me to think differently as a performer and opened up a fresh and engaging approach to creating character and narrative.”
The showcase also underlined UWTSD’s focus on giving students industry-facing training and professional opportunities as they prepare to move into the next stage of their careers.
Angharad Lee, UWTSD’s Programme Manager for BA Perfformio and BA Musical Theatre, said the university was proud to work with Welsh practitioners operating at the highest level of the industry.
She said: “These relationships are vital for our students, offering real-world experience, inspiration and mentorship, while creating important connections that can support their transition from training into professional practice.”
