MATILDA JR

Matilda Jr is based upon the well-known book by Roald Dahl, with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin and Dennis Kelly. It is packed with fun, thirteen energetic musical numbers and a large cast of mentionable ensemble roles, so everyone has a lot to do.

In Dahl’s story, Matilda is born with astonishing wit, intelligence, a vivid imagination and special powers !. Unloved by her parents, her less-than-brilliant family fails to value the qualities that make Matilda so special. Sent to the abysmal Crunchem Hall Primary School, she impresses loveable, kind teacher Miss Honey, but monstrous, mean headmistress Miss Trunchbull hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who flout her rules. Can Matilda be the pupils’ saving grace ?

We were looking forward to our visit to Blyth MTC Youth Academy’s production following their successful performance of Seussical Jr this time last year, and our expectations were fulfilled superbly well.

It was gratifying to see that the group has changed its venue to the recently altered Headway Theatre Arts building; previously the URC Church in Waterloo Road. In my estimation, a definite improvement in both facilities and viable space. It was equally nice to see a full house supporting this exceptionally talented group.

Once again, with excellent direction and choreography from Shaunagh Burge and Zowie Payne, the cast of 28 produced a romp of a show to be proud of.

The three main principals; Matilda (Lucy Harding), Miss Honey (Hannah Craig) and the redoubtable Miss Trunchbull (Ava Nolan) were excellently well characterised, with all of their acting skill and singing talents on show. They were very well supported by the hateful Mr & Mrs Wormwood (Grace Evans and Lucy Hartill), with equally great work by Bruce (Matilda Blakely), and Mrs Phelps (Sarah Robinson), with super emotion and movement from the Escapologist and the Acrobat (Emily and Rosie Clapham). There were also some cracking second line performances from Abigail Batey, Sadie Alderson, Kerry Thompson, Ivy Holland, Jessica Short, Eve Aldcroft, Eve Harper and the rest of the very attentive ensemble who were well drilled and never lost their focus. Well done, everyone !

Excellent costumes, props, special effects and staging added to the success of this production which flowed nicely from start to finish. I particularly enjoyed the disappearing chocolate cake and the self-propelled moving water jug.

The show lasts for only just over one hour, which was sad, because the packed audience were ready for more, as shown by the standing applause following the finale.

The only downside for me was the sound quality, which, on a first night, sometimes does cause problems. I’m sure this will have been corrected by Stephen from Siren Sound for the remaining performances.

This was a real ‘team effort’ with a veritable army of helpers; both front of house and backstage – far too many to mention, but all extremely valuable. I hope you all realise the great work you are doing and the positive effect it has on these extremely fortunate childrens’ lives.

Thanks from NODA Past President Gordon, Regional Councillor Peter, Pauleen and myself for the invitations and welcome. Another fantastic night’s entertainment.

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