Matilda JR

What an energy-packed piece of theatre we all enjoyed from this young cast at the Maddermarket. The thirty-five youngsters showed dedicated application to their roles, all knew exactly what and where their action needed to be and performed at the heights of their strengths. The singing was excellent standard. Each member had developed a back story and character and intensely stuck with it (Director Anna always very strong in this field working the youngsters), and so we could watch as each youngster added so much to the action. The simple set of boxes worked so well as the cast moved them with precision of space and timing for the pictures formed.

Loved the interplay between the youngsters in school and in park, some really nice characterisations. The Wormwood Family a good unit of interplay. Liked the ‘reading’ sequences of Matilda and teacher/librarian. The circus sequence worked well. The relationship with Miss Honey (Chloe Coleman) felt warm and caring. This was a full cast participation throughout the action, really good.

Two performances shone so brightly and stole the show: Finn Richardson-Gunn is a big lad and he excelled in the role of Agatha Trunchbull, costume and wig ideal and his outgoing characterisation dominated. And in the title role, Fio Rymarz as Matilda was outstanding in her portrayal, singing and movement obviously showed why chosen for the role, her whole personality and acting just meant that one had to watch her constantly, a role to relish.

Watching these youngsters in performance, I can hardly wait for them ‘to grow up’ and bring their talents to the stages in Norfolk, congratulations.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.