Matilda JR

Matilda JR is a perfect youth musical, a well-known Roald Dahl story which is ideal for a large company with many named parts, and plenty of opportunity for the principals and ensemble to shine. This was certainly the case for this cast of 29.

Roushka and her assistant directors had given the children believable three-dimensional characters which were recognisable from the book, but also their own. They had worked with the youngsters on their line delivery, projection, and expression, so that they were all confident in their roles. The 10-year-old actress playing Matilda did an excellent job and I loved the way that the whole cast worked so well together supporting each other to give their best performances. 

The interesting choreography was well designed and fitted perfectly with the songs. I particularly enjoyed the clever choreographing of the alphabet in “School Song” and the energetic routine in “Revolting Children” The cast had all learned the routines which were high energy, and I was pleased to see that they were smiling and obviously enjoying themselves. The MD had worked hard with principals and chorus to ensure they were confident with their songs. Working from tracks, she had clearly worked to ensure that they knew their entrances, and sitting at the front of the stage was able to bring them in and keep them on time. What a wonderful production!

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