ZooNation’s The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party: A Dance Production Addressing Mental Health
Step into Wonderland with ZooNation dance company’s latest production, The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, set to premiere at London’s Linbury Theatre. The stage is adorned with oversized cups, saucers, and colorful teapots, but this adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale delves deeper into the theme of mental health.
In this reimagined story, Dr. Ernst Sven Sjogren-Kvist, played by Tommy Franzen, takes center stage as an expert in “normalisation,” tasked with fixing individuals deemed “abnormal.” Choreographer and ZooNation founder, Kate Prince, aims to spark conversations around mental health and challenge societal perceptions of what is considered normal.
With the number of young people struggling with mental health doubling since 2017, productions like The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party provide a platform for individuals to express their feelings and engage in discussions. Jennifer Walters from mental health charity Mind emphasizes the importance of using the arts to support young people’s mental well-being and encourage dialogue on the topic.
The characters in Kate Prince’s production each face unique challenges, from anorexia nervosa to PTSD, shedding light on the complexities of mental health issues. Tommy Franzen’s character undergoes a transformation throughout the show, shifting his perspective and understanding of the individuals he encounters.
The music, created by Josh Cohen and DJ Walde, complements the narrative, with each character receiving their own musical motif. Kate Prince believes that The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party will offer a positive and uplifting theatrical experience, inspiring audiences with exceptional performances and uplifting music.
In addition to the production, ZooNation offers workshops for schools, communities, and educational groups interested in exploring the creative process behind the show. The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is set to run at the Royal Opera House Linbury Theatre from September 4th to 24th, 2024, inviting audiences to embark on a journey through Wonderland and delve into the complexities of mental health.
