Matilda JR the Musical

Some 50 youngsters between the ages of 8 and 13 took to the stage to tell the story of Matilda - an extraordinary girl with a dismal home life and miserable school life - who discovers with the support of one of her teachers she can stand up for herself and others. 11 year old Harper was excellent in the title role of Matilda. She had a good strong singing voice as displayed in all her solos and a good stage presence especially in her confrontations with the fear inducing Headmistress Miss Trunchbull. Miss Trunchbull was played by 13 year old Tia who terrorised the stage as she strutted across it in her jackboots and military style suit bellowing out her commands and had an equally powerful singing voice as shown in “The Hammer” and “The Smell of Rebellion” numbers. The part of the gentle and supporting teacher Miss Honey was sensitively played by 11 year old Mollie and her rendition of “This Little Girl” was beautifully delivered. Matilda’s uncaring family were well portrayed by 10 year old Callan as her dodgy car salesman father Mr Wormwood, Ailsa as her money and fun loving mother and 11 year old Dylan as her TV obsessed brother Michael. Another who gave a strong support was 12 year old Ellamary as librarian Mrs Phelps who encouraged Matilda in her storytelling especially about the Escapologist (played by Alice) and his Acrobat wife (played by 12 year old Isla). The large ensemble of school children moved and sang well and with great energy especially in the “When I Grow Up” and “Revolting Children” numbers. Good use was made of a video wall to indicate the changes of scenes and by using the stage crew dressed as school children to bring on furniture and props the pace didn’t drop. Costuming was appropriate to the characters. Well done everyone at Haddo Musical Theatre School on a great performance well deserving of the standing ovation from the full house audience.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.