Northwest Children’s Theater announces the return of Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, a magical interactive performance created and conceived by John Ellingson and directed by Sarah Jane Hardy.
Back by popular demand after last year’s completely sold-out and hugely successful run, this beloved production returns to The Judy May 9 through May 24 to delight audiences once again.
Join the Mad Hatter and the White Rabbit as you step through the looking glass for an interactive tea party filled with songs, surprises, magic, and madness. This unforgettable production is the perfect introductory experience for new, young theatergoers and experienced theater lovers alike.
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is created and conceived by NWCT Associate Artistic Director John Ellingson, who stars as the Mad Hatter. Ellingson brings together his many talents as a singer, magician, clown, and puppeteer to create this one-of-a-kind production. His knack for breaking the fourth wall will be on full display as he leaps from the stage and brings the show into the audience.
“Everyone needs to laugh, and my greatest joy as a performer is to make people laugh,” says Ellingson. “Families had so much fun at this show last year that we just had to bring it back. There’s nothing else like it in Portland.”
Upon entering The Judy, audiences are ushered into the Black Box Theater and take their seats at whimsical tables surrounding the stage. As the tea party kicks off, the show comes to life around the audience, enveloping guests in the story. Guests are encouraged to arrive in costumes and tea party attire so they can truly be part of this immersive experience.
To make the experience even more enjoyable, guests are treated to a variety of delicious snacks and beverages at their tables. Youth tickets include tea, Mad Hatter’s punch, tea cakes, sandwiches, and other whimsical sweet treats. Adult tickets include tea and Caffè Umbria coffee to enjoy while watching the show unfold. Families can also look forward to a meet-and-greet photo opportunity at the end of the performance.
NWCT Artistic Director Sarah Jane Hardy directs the show and reflects on her long-time collaboration with Ellingson. “John and I have enjoyed a long and fruitful creative partnership at NWCT. We’ve never created a show quite like this one before, in which the audience is truly integrated into the show. It’s a very special and enjoyable experience for families.”
This lively and interactive performance is designed to create lasting memories for families and will have both children and adults laughing, singing, and perhaps even learning a little magic along the way.
Performance Details:
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party runs May 9 through May 24, 2026, at The Judy Kafoury Center for Youth Arts, located at 1000 SW Broadway, Suite T-100 in Portland.
Performances take place on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, and 3:00 PM.
The show is most enjoyed by ages 4 and up.
Tickets range from $20 to $25 and are available at nwcts.org or by calling 503-222-2190.
$5 Arts for All tickets are available for Oregon Trail/SNAP cardholders. More information can be found at nwcts.org/faqs.
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is produced in part through the support of the Oregon Arts Commission, Kafoury McDougal: Lawyers for the People, PDX Parent, NW Kids, and NWCT’s donor families.
