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Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Review: A school holiday show that actually keeps kids engaged
Taking an eight-year-old to live theatre can go one of two ways. Complete magic, or a lot of whispered “how much longer” and seat shuffling. Thankfully, Mad Hatter’s Tea Party landed firmly in the first category.
I went along on Tuesday with Aurora, 8, and from the moment we tumbled down the rabbit hole at The Grand Electric, she was locked in. This is not a sit quietly and observe kind of show. It is loud, playful, chaotic in the best way, and built to keep kids watching rather than waiting for it to end.
What parents need to know upfront
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party runs for around 60 minutes, which feels like the sweet spot for primary-school-aged kids. Long enough to feel like a proper outing, short enough that attention doesn’t drift.
The show blends circus, cabaret and storytelling, with constant movement, acrobatic acts and visual moments that pull kids straight back in whenever their focus wobbles.
Parents tell us attention span is everything at this age, and this show understands that.
What kids actually love
Aurora was immediately drawn in by the physicality of the show. The acrobatics are impressive without being scary, and there is always something happening. Teacups tumble, bodies flip, characters appear unexpectedly and the pace rarely slows.
What really stood out was the audience participation. Kids are not just watching. They are being spoken to, reacted to and occasionally pulled into the madness. Aurora loved feeling like part of the show rather than a passive audience member.
Parents tell us this is the difference between a good show and a great one for kids, and Mad Hatter’s Tea Party gets it right.
The humour sweet spot
There is a layer of cheeky adult humour woven throughout, but it is handled cleverly. Nothing too inappropriate, nothing awkward, just enough that parents feel entertained too.
Aurora laughed at the physical comedy and absurd characters, while I caught the subtler jokes designed for the grown-ups. It makes the experience feel shared, not endured.
We love shows that respect both audiences, and this one does.
The characters that stood out
The cast is packed with personality, and each character feels distinct and memorable. Tamara Campbell’s Mad Hatter anchors the chaos beautifully, with the kind of presence that commands attention from kids without overpowering them.
The March Hare, Cheshire Cat and Caterpillar all landed well with the younger audience, while the Red Kween added just enough theatrical drama to keep things exciting rather than intimidating.
Aurora left talking about the characters rather than just the tricks, which says a lot.
Is it suitable for kids
Yes, particularly for primary-school-aged kids. Eight felt like a great age for this show. Young enough to delight in the silliness, old enough to follow the story and enjoy the interaction.
Very sensitive children or those who prefer quiet shows may find it a little loud or chaotic, but for kids who enjoy energy, movement and being involved, this is a win.
Parents tell us it helps to frame it as an interactive experience rather than traditional theatre, and that expectation makes all the difference.
The venue experience
The Grand Electric works well for this kind of production. Intimate enough that kids feel close to the action, but structured enough that it still feels special.
The atmosphere adds to the sense that you are stepping into something playful and slightly surreal, which suits the Mad Hatter world perfectly.
Final verdict for parents
This is a genuinely fun school holiday outing that does not feel like a compromise. Aurora loved it, stayed engaged the entire time, and left buzzing.
I loved that it entertained her without talking down to her, and entertained me without needing to rely on nostalgia or boredom tolerance.
If you are looking for something different to the usual holiday activities, Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is a strong yes.
Booking Details
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is now playing at The Grand Electric until 25 January 2026.
Season runs from Saturday 3 to Tuesday 25 January 2026
Duration is 60 minutes
Suitable for all ages, children must be accompanied by an adult
Bookings via madhattershow.com
Instagram @madhatterstheshow