Council pledges $500 plus in‑kind support for park 'Alice in Wonderland' performance

Fiona Katrine (who identified herself as Fiona Katrine Benson) asked the council for permission to stage an immersive, family‑oriented "Alice in Wonderland" dance performance along the Springs Loop at Kelly Park on Aug. 15, with rehearsals Aug. 10–14. She asked to place set pieces along the trail, post signage, use ATVs/side‑by‑sides for load‑in of large pieces, and place one or two portable restrooms near the performance area for participant and audience convenience.

Katrine said she anticipates roughly 25 performers but can work with fewer and promised to remove all set pieces and debris after the event. She said costumes and registration fees will cover performers' basic costs and that she plans to solicit donations to cover set expenses (she estimated about $6,282 needed). The council discussed parking and trail access, liability and insurance needs, and mosquito abatement; staff said restrooms exist near the ball fields but porta‑potties closer to the performance area would improve convenience.

Council president Hart moved to provide $500 cash toward the production plus up to $1,000 in combined in‑kind support (mosquito abatement, toilet facilities, staff assistance) and the council approved the motion. Council members encouraged Katrine to secure program insurance and participant waivers and to coordinate logistics (parking, staff placement) with Director Young and staff before advertising the event.

Organizers and council said they expect the event to draw visitors from nearby communities and hoped it would support local vendors and businesses.