Loud music, funky outfits, colorful refreshments, arcade games: a typical teen paradise, yes? But imbed this utopia in a Disney theme park, and you have created a literal wonderland for the under 25 crowd. The Mad T Party, now playing from 7pm nightly in Disney California Adventure’s Hollywood Land., is a psychedelic trip down the Rabbit Hole- really!
My boys, leaving Hollywood behind. |
From the moment you step into the neon enshrined mist, you are fully immersed in an edgy version of Alice’s world. This is absolutely Tim Burton’s version of Alice in Wonderland (did you know that he was consulted on the costume choices?), and “tame” it is not. Neon is everywhere; it’s eerie glow sets the tone for the entertainment that envelops you.
To your left, the main stage offers up a live band. Popular tunes are served up, loudly (just what their audience begs for), by Alice (my boys thought she was a touch of Gaga) and the Mad Hatter (Jagger-esque in style, but according to my sons, with far weaker vocals).
Off to your far right is the House of Cards side stage, where street dancers perform to DJ White Rabbit’s beat.
Your hosts, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum |
“Hottest Deck in Town” |
My teen and 21 appreciated the choice of songs, and felt they had a mainstream appeal; after all, there were plenty of parents in attendance too! Speaking of oldsters, there are several seating areas designed for the non-dancing set.
For adults, and my newly-legal 21 year old, alcoholic concoctions further set the “chasing rabbits” mood. Nothing says party better than a Croque-tini, complete with a glowing ice cube.
Curiouser and curiouser |
Never fear, my teen had a non-alcoholic Cheshire Twist! The party supplies many other teen and pre-teen distractions as well: face painting, air hockey and a FULL, Alice in Wonderland themed arcade.
And for the young and old alike, there are a few surprises to be found…
It’s not Dumbo the Flying Elephant, and it’s not Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters. For teens and young adults, the pure beauty of the Mad T Party is that it’s all for them– a place of their own where they belong. Like Alice, they are embroiled in their own changes. I actually may have enjoyed the party more than my sons (see above), but the fact that Disney planned the entertainment with this particular age group in mind went far in their enjoyment of this Disneyland vacation. If you have pre-teens, teens or young adults, the Mad T Party is a dream you must have!
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Snow White Archive says
Something for everyone. The parks are pretty cool that way.
Donna Kay says
Great aricle Donna!! A definite must see for me when I finally make it to Disneyland one day.