Sydney audiences are invited to tumble down the rabbit hole these summer holidays as The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party brings its cheeky, chaotic and joyfully topsy-turvy circus-cabaret to The Grand Electric from 3 to 25 January 2026.
Designed for the young and the young-at-heart, this high-energy family spectacle promises an hour of immersive fun packed with aerial acrobatics, riotous characters and infectious laughter. It’s a world where teacups tumble, sugar cubes fly and the fourth wall is gleefully dismantled — a place where curiosity, chaos and creativity reign.
A Wonderland reborn for a new generation
Originally inspired by the much-loved Funatorium: The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, which delighted audiences at the Sydney Opera House, QPAC and Auckland Live in 2017–2018, this brand-new 2026 incarnation arrives with fresh energy, a new cast and an even bigger appetite for Wonderland mayhem.
Directed by Mike Finch, former Artistic Director of Circus Oz, the production blends world-class circus technique with playful storytelling and spirited audience interaction. 
“This show is a full-tilt celebration of imagination and joyful disorder,” Finch says. “We take Lewis Carroll’s iconic characters and throw them into a circus blender — what comes out is hilarious, surprising and full of heart. Kids love the wildness of it, adults love the wit, and everyone leaves with their own favourite mad moment.”
Circus, colour and characters collide
With costume and set design by Melanie Liertz, the production bursts into life through vivid colour, texture and visual mischief, transporting audiences straight into a topsy-turvy Wonderland. A dynamic ensemble of Australia’s leading circus and theatre artists bring the world to life, including Tamara Campbell as the Mad Hatter, Daniel Gorski as the March Hare, Casey Douglas as the Caterpillar, Marianna Joslin as the Cheshire Cat, Mozes as the Red Kween, Alicia Rose Quinn (Lou P) as the Flamingo and Tim Dennis as the White Rabbit.
Acrobatics, antics and absurdity unfold in equal measure, with children actively encouraged to join the mayhem. Giggles, gasps and full-body laughter aren’t just welcome — they’re part of the show.
A new home for family magic at The Grand Electric
Set within the intimate surrounds of The Grand Electric, The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is the inaugural production in the venue’s Little Sparks program — a new series dedicated to igniting creativity and imagination in children and their families. Audiences can also enjoy a delightfully topsy-turvy high tea experience, complete with sweet treats, mocktails for kids and cocktails for grown-ups.
Creative Producer and Director of Broad Encounters Kirsten Siddle says the venue feels like a perfect match. “Sydney parents have fallen head-over-heels for The Grand Electric’s unique cabaret atmosphere, and now they finally get to bring their kids to experience the magic too. It’s the ideal home for the silliest, wildest tea party in town.”
The Grand Electric Director Scott Maidment agrees, describing the production as a joyful expression of the venue’s spirit. “This show captures everything we love — wonder, mischief and theatrical delight. We can’t wait to welcome families into our world.”
Playful, immersive and bursting with imagination, The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is set to become a summer highlight for Sydney families — a place where circus meets comedy, Wonderland comes alive, and everyone is invited to the table.
Bookings: madhattershow.com
