Get ready to tumble down a rabbit hole like never before—but this time, it’s got a musical twist and a dash of Sabrina Carpenter’s star power. Here’s the scoop: Sabrina Carpenter, the global pop sensation and rising acting powerhouse, is set to star in and produce a brand-new musical adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland for Universal Pictures. But here’s where it gets controversial—this isn’t your grandmother’s Alice. With Carpenter at the helm, expect a fresh, modern take that blends her signature energy with Carroll’s timeless whimsy. And this is the part most people miss: this project is reportedly a passion piece for Carpenter, who approached the studio over a year ago armed with a vision and a lookbook. Talk about dedication!
Helming the project alongside Carpenter is Lorene Scafaria, the visionary behind the critically acclaimed Hustlers. Scafaria’s knack for blending sharp storytelling with bold visuals makes her a perfect fit for this fantastical journey. But will her edgy style clash with Carroll’s Victorian charm? Only time will tell. Joining the team is producer Marc Platt, the mastermind behind Wicked—both on Broadway and the big screen. With his musical expertise, this Alice is poised to be a spectacle. Also on board are Leslie Morgenstein and Elysa Koplovitz Dutton of Alloy Entertainment, the brains behind hits like Gossip Girl and Pretty Little Liars.
Carroll’s original tale, about a curious girl who stumbles into a world of talking animals and absurd logic, has captivated audiences for generations. Disney’s 1951 animated version is a classic, and Tim Burton’s 2010 live-action reimagining—starring Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter—raked in over a billion dollars. But Carpenter’s musical spin? That’s uncharted territory. Bold prediction: This could either redefine the story for a new generation or spark debates among purists. What do you think—will this Alice sing its way into your heart, or is it a risk too far?
Behind the scenes, Universal’s Ryan Jones and Jacqueline Garell are overseeing the project, while Katie McNicol is steering the ship for Marc Platt Productions. Speaking of Platt, his upcoming release, Wicked: For Good, hits theaters this November, proving his golden touch with musicals. Meanwhile, Carpenter’s star continues to rise. Fresh off six Grammy nominations—including Album of the Year for Man’s Best Friend—she’s proving she’s a force in both music and film. Her acting chops, showcased in The Hate U Give and Emergency, only add to her versatility.
Scafaria, meanwhile, is on a roll. After Hustlers earned her an Independent Spirit Award nomination, she’s been busy directing HBO’s I Love LA and episodes of the Emmy-winning Succession. Her ability to juggle genres—from comedy to drama—makes her a perfect fit for Alice’s surreal landscape. But here’s the question: Can a story rooted in Victorian absurdity resonate in today’s fast-paced world? And more importantly, will Carpenter’s musical twist elevate it or overshadow Carroll’s original genius?
One thing’s for sure: this project is a gamble—but one that could pay off in a big way. With Carpenter’s passion, Scafaria’s vision, and Platt’s expertise, this Alice in Wonderland could be the musical event of the decade. Or it could spark a heated debate about adapting classics. What’s your take? Are you excited to see Carpenter’s spin on this beloved tale, or do you think some stories are better left untouched? Let’s discuss in the comments!
