Matilda The Musical JR

The auditorium was packed to see this production - full of excited children, parents and grandparents all pointing at the open stage as they took their seats. The stage was flooded with the iconic blue and pink light, screens with projections dangled from above, the flats were school room inspired - painted as large classical book spines, alphabet letters and phrases - instantly recognisable. The haze started and the children emerged out of it - very cleverly done, we (the audience) never saw or heard the children get onstage. The set changes throughout the show were done by the cast using boxes, the various sides were painted to be put together to make different objects . The cast handled this very competently, quickly and quietly.

The lighting plot throughout the show was incredible - special mention must go to the “chokie” effect used, very well done!  Matilda requires a darker style of lighting and this was definitely achieved. The ensemble worked tirelessly throughout, it is an excitable show but the cast held it together and didn’t let the shows natural giddiness take over. A favourite number of mine is “Revolting Children”, this was magnificently started by Harry O’Connor (Bruce Bogtrotter). He is definitely one to keep an eye on for the future - he is generous onstage, has an easy natural ability and a voice that stays true, is strong and can be heard. Jessica Dunning (Matilda) was every inch the cheeky, endearing, vulnerable and fierce character that is the very essence of Matilda. She gave some very fine vocals, had good diction and projection and she connected well to both the audience and to her fellow actors onstage. Daniel Eccles (Miss Trunchbull) could have been born to play this part. From the moment he appeared in full Trunchbull regalia, he owned every second. He gave us a very full bodied, confident performance complete with mannerisms which I am pleased to say he upheld right till the end. It would be very easy for this character to upstage the other actors on the stage as “she” is just so big - not necessarily in stature but in presence. Daniel was very careful to not let this happen and certainly looked to be enjoying himself up there. Jessica Haslam (Miss Honey) was a perfect balance for Daniel, she had equal confidence and was very comfortable onstage. Her vocals were true and strong with a new found depth to them . Her chemistry and empathy with Jessica (Matilda) was very evident. Jake Ashworth (Mr Wormwood) and Charles Clarke (Mrs Wormwood) were very funny to watch, I look forward to watching their acting skills develop further. 

Matilda The Musical JR is a very wordy show and, at times, I did feel that some of the dialogue was a little bit rushed. Take that extra moment and breathe, it’s ok, we (the audience) just need a second to catch up. 

Louis Jones-McCaw (Michael Wormwood) had some great one liners and delivered them with good comedic timing. The whole cast worked very well together, it is always apparent how happy they are onstage and how it is very much a family up there. Well done, everyone, I thoroughly enjoyed your performance.

Thank you for your hospitality and I look forward to seeing you all again very soon.

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