Matilda

                                                    

This was my first visit to this venue and indeed the first time I have seen this group of young performers. I was warmly welcomed on arrival by Jade Kennedy who explained that all the cast were aged between 10 and 16 years old.

The scenery for this production was most impressive. There were a great many scene changes with sets being wheeled on and off stage seamlessly all aided by various props. Well done to Ashlea Moore and the stage crew.

Thomas Hume-Steer, as Miss Agatha Trunchbull the Head Teacher was excellent in this role which he played in a bossy and imposing manner. He had a powerful singing voice and I enjoyed his dance with the trailing red ribbons.

Tallulah Smith, as Matilda Wormwood was mocked and belittled by her parents and addressed as “son”. She wanted to read which her parents did not agree with. She was on stage constantly acting with confidence and had a lovely singing voice which was slightly over powered by the sound level. However, this improved in Act 2 allowing the audience to hear her more clearly. I particularly enjoyed “When I Grow Up “ accompanied by the lively chorus.

Ben Norfolk, as Mr Wormwood, played a convincing rogue with a strong singing voice. Ben was also the Dance Captain. Felicity Ransley, as his flighty wife, was well cast and a confident solo singer and energetic dancer. Jefferson Belvin-Hay played Matilda's unhelpful brother, Michael.

Ben also played Bruce Bogtrotter and was confident and energetic in this role.

Rosie Markham, as Miss Honey, the Class Teacher was a gentle character initially but stood up vigorously to Miss Trunchbull as the story developed. Rosie displayed a beautiful singing voice and grew in confidence with her solo spots.

Aaron Elam was the escapologist and Katie French was the acrobat, both performing well in their spots.

All the cast were very well rehearsed and the dance numbers were both lively and energetic thanks to choreographer Gabrielle Tyler.

Will Smith-Daye was in charge of sound and Peter Norfolk lighting. There were some interesting special effects eg the screens on the teacher's wall. The wardrobe team had done a great job with the costumes which were attractive and relevant.

Singing throughout was extremely good with some notable “stars”.

Everyone seemed happy to be on stage and growing in confidence. There was tremendous energy from all the cast and smiling faces where appropriate.

Many congratulations to Director Sam McCarthy, whom I met in the interval, for bringing this production to stage and for bringing out such enthusiasm and growing confidence in this young group.

The audience of mostly friends and family members of the cast were very enthusiastic in their applause and enjoyment. I certainly enjoyed the performance very much.

Well done to everyone involved in any way, both on and off stage.

 

 

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.