A disappearing cat with a wide smile, a time-obsessed rabbit, and a queen with a penchant for decapitation all feature in the latest script by John Baker, associate professor of communication at York College.

Baker has adapted the children’s classic
Alice in Wonderland for a large cast of young actors. The script will soon be published by Big Dog/Norman Maine Publishing and will appear in their 2018 catalog.



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Baker directed the show’s debut in the summer of 2017 with the Yorkshire Playhouse Children’s Theatre with a cast of 59 children, ranging in age from 7 to 17. Baker started the Children’s Theatre program in York 17 years ago. This is the third show he has written for the summer troupe and then had published by Big Dog. Previous publishing credits include The Patchwork Girl of Oz and Queen Zixi of Ix.

The Yorkshire Children’s Theatre production has become a staple of the community as Baker produces high quality shows for sell-out crowds that are training grounds for young performers. The annual production is also an opportunity for York College students to get real world experience, as they often assistant direct and manage other behind-the-scenes elements of the show.

Baker is in his 21st year with York College. In addition to teaching, Baker directs two mainstage productions per year as well as a traveling show that is performed at area elementary schools throughout the spring semester.