Matilda Jr

A big thank you to Newport Pantomime Society for their very welcome invitation to see their latest Junior production “Matilda the Musical”, which was held on what could only be described as one of the hottest days of the year. My admiration to the Cast and Production team both front of house and backstage for the effort it must have taken to maintain an energetic performance in the extreme heat. Bravo

Maisie Phillips as Matilda gave a lovely performance and certainly looked the part of this very well-known character. Megan Norris as Miss Honey was very well cast and her characterisation was perfect. The stage relationship between these two characters was very fitting and believable and an emotional rendition of “This Little Girl” was very much a favourite of the audience.

Matilda’s not so caring family played by Sam Newman as Mr Wormwood, Bethany Bassett as Mrs Wormwood and Arthur Newman as Michael, gave us a very good example of bad parenting with good characterisation and comedy timing.

Zac Chape as Miss Trunchbull took on the challenge well with a sterling performance, capturing the manic and controlling character perfectly. Well done.

I must emphasise the  energy and enthusiasm of the whole company throughout this performance. The full cast scenes were well choreographed under the direction of Choreographer Emma Anderson, and the musical numbers were performed with gusto and energy. The cast were a credit to Musical Director Gareth Rawle-Jones and Choir Mistress Rose Chilcott.

I must give a special mention to the Back Stage Team for the excellent stage setting and design, as it enhanced the overall performance. Gerald Needs, Dave Marsh, Rus Yates-Arlott and Kevin Chilcott.

This production was a true team effort as always with this society. My thanks and congratulations to you all.

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.