Act I, Scene I

Incipere.

HATTER: I’m afraid it’s time for you to go back soon, but before you go, won’t you tell me why you were upset?

SOPHIE: [growing solemn] Why should I? We were having fun.

HATTER: Because I’m your friend, and I don’t want you to be sad.

SOPHIE: [hesitant] I… The Red Queen was angry again, but she wouldn’t tell me why. I think… I think I’m supposed to be looking for someone, but I don’t know, I can’t remember. [bursts into tears]

HATTER: [lifts her up onto his shoulders] No need to cry again, little one. The Red Queen can’t find you here, nor can anyone else, for that matter. You’re safe.

SOPHIE: [sniffles] Then how come I have to go back? I don’t really want to.

HATTER: I know. But it was an accident that you’ve ended up here at all, when in fact, you should be there.

SOPHIE: Do you always speak in riddles?

HATTER: When it suits me. [lowers her to the ground, winking] Alright, time for you to leave ‘Wonderland.’ Remember the way back now? Through the rabbit hole you go. [leads her to a tunnel just large enough for her to crawl through]

SOPHIE: [sadly] Fine. Goodbye, Mr. Hatter. Will I see you again soon?

HATTER: Not too soon, Sophie. [tips hat] Goodbye, now!

[SOPHIE exits, waving cheerily.]