Matilda The Musical Jr

Matilda the Musical Jr performed by Curtain Call was an energy-packed piece of theatre enjoyed by its young cast at the Walker Theatre in Shrewsbury. The show had been well cast by Director Benjamin Connor Davies and each performer showed true dedication to the role to which they were to play. The interaction between performers on stage was great and was just as strong at the back of the stage as it was with its principal set of characters at the front. Overall there was full cast participation throughout all of the action and in all of the scenes and across the different ages of the performers.

The choreography, as always, was strong and well executed. Principal singing was excellent however the chorus singing was sometimes overpowered by the backing track making it difficult to hear all of the words being sung. I did however particularly enjoy the full production numbers of Bruce, Revolting Children and When I Grow Up.

Annabel Booth played the role of Miss Honey and her singing is to be congratulated, as her diction was clear and precise especially when she sang This Little Girl.

Imogen Booth in the title role of Matilda was just delightful to watch in her portrayal of the character, singing and movement. Her personality and acting meant that she was the one to watch constantly and she embodied both Matilda’s cleverness and kindness.

Charlie Yeomans excelled in the role of Agatha Trunchbull and just gets better in every show that I have seen him in. This is a performer who knows how to look after his costume, shoes and wig to ensure that they are professionally presented at every performance and how to bring his character to life from the moment he appears on stage, dominating each of the scenes that he appeared in.

I also enjoyed watching Isaac Houghton as Michael Wormwood, this is a supporting role and a very minimal speaking part but his contributions to the scenes added great comedy.

The set worked well with scene changes executed well by the performers and the simple set of alphabet boxes were moved with precision and great timing. Lighting was effective, creative and added great atmosphere to the production.

Thank you Curtain Call for inviting me to your production, everyone in the company should be really proud on a well-polished performance. I cannot wait for this set of young performers to ‘grow up’ so that they can bring their talent to a full length musical.  The reaction from the audience really summed up how much of an enjoyable evening it was.

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