The Mad Hatter's Tea Party

We expect a production that moves away from the traditional tropes of classical ballet, favouring a high-energy movement style rooted in street dance. You will hear a modern score composed by DJ Walde and Josh Cohen, which provides a rhythmic and urban backdrop far removed from the romantic orchestral works often staged in this building. The evening focuses on a spirited reimagining of Lewis Carroll’s familiar characters, focusing on the eccentricities of the tea party guests. You should listen for how the electronic and contemporary musical elements synchronise with the percussive footwork of the performers. The visual language is equally modern, as the dancers wear bold contemporary designs by Ben Stones instead of traditional stage attire. The result is a theatrical experience that uses the physical vocabulary of hip-hop and house to tell a story of personality and chaos, offering a kinetic and loud alternative to the conventional evening of dance.

The Royal Ballet and Opera performs this work, representing the company’s ongoing commitment to expanding the boundaries of dance. Based at the Royal Opera House, the ensemble is internationally recognised for its technical precision and its ability to switch between heritage works and new commissions. While typically associated with the highest standards of classical pointe work, these performers are increasingly known for their versatility in contemporary and urban styles. This performance highlights the company’s collaborative approach, bringing together dancers with the creative vision of Kate Prince to explore modern movement languages on a historic London stage.

This performance takes place at the Royal Opera House in London on 16 August 2027. Given its modern music and street-dance influence, it is a suitable choice if you are visiting the venue for the first time or prefer contemporary energy over traditional ballet. There is no specific dress code for the evening, though many attendees choose smart-casual attire. The production relies on visual storytelling and music, so there are no surtitles or foreign-language librettos to follow. Please note that the running time has not been confirmed for this specific date.