Stephen Jones grew up at the Augusta Ballet studio on Furys Ferry Road, performing every male role and then using his dance training as a springboard into a career that has put him on film and on stages worldwide.
The Atlanta resident has danced with violinist Lindsey Stirling, performed in Super Bowl half time shows, played Jasper in movie “Step Up All In,” choreographed for the Atlanta Hawks half time shows and worked on countless other projects in his career, but there’s one thing he hasn’t done until now — choreograph a ballet for his parents’ dance company.
Augusta Ballet performed “Alice in Wonderland” several years ago, and it was choreographed by Michael Viator. That version, according to Ron Jones, was a more stylized, abstract one.
“Stephen came in and said, ‘I’d like to tell the story,’” said Ron Jones, Augusta Ballet artistic director. “Michael was wonderful with movement, but Stephen proceeded to tell the story.”
Stephen Jones’ retelling of the Lewis Carroll classic through dance will be performed at 7 p.m. Sept. 20 at the Columbia County Performing Arts Center.
One of the original scenes remains at the beginning because its abstract nature plays well and leads Alice on her journey, Ron Jones said.
Not only has he brought new life into the choreography, but Stephen Jones has added elements to the overall design of the show.
“He’s got an immense background in theater and stage design,” said Ron Jones.
Instead of traditional backdrops, Stephen Jones is incorporating projections, which are more cost effective, and in some cases, provide more of an impact.
“Alice is dreaming, and she chases rabbit into the hole. There are all these whirly gigs on the backdrop. Then the next thing you know Alice is dropped into the middle of the stage surrounded by doors,” Ron Jones said.
Set pieces, such as the doors, also play a part in telling the story.
“It’s quite delightful,” said Ron Jones of his son’s interpretation.
And the volunteers behind the scenes have also responded to Stephen Jones’ vision, he said. They were excited to be able to bring lots of color into the costumes and make up.
Tickets for “Alice in Wonderland” are $29-$54 and are available here.
Charmain Z. Brackett, the publisher of Augusta Good News and Inspiring: Women of Augusta, has covered Augusta’s news for more than 35 years and is a Georgia Press Association award winner. Reach her at charmain@augustagoodnews.com. Sign up for the newsletter here.
