Matilda

Last night, I stayed up past my bedtime and broke the rules with the Matilda, The Musical cast, here is why you should too...

Matilda, one of Roald Dahl's famed books, again brought to life through the creative arts. As I pondered who I could give my extra ticket to, I thought, who'd be better to bring with me than my 7-year-old niece, the primary audience for this wonderful show. And while her review is a little more exciting than mine, we unanimously had a fabulous time.

Opening in 2010, Matilda the Musical sought to break the rules, just like their daring protagonist. It took the world of theatre by its pigtails and demanded it be adored by musical lovers and haters alike. In order to appeal to performing arts lovers, Kelly Minchin and Matthew Warchus had to tweak and change this literary children's classic into something dramatic and compelling – suitable for the stage. And I think they did it rather well.

Despite worldwide success, there was initial fear for its debut on Broadway in 2013. Would this musical see the same success it saw on its homeland? Would the witty, funny, and cheeky British humour transcend the seas? Thankfully, it did. In fact, what made this performance so loved was the Britishness that came with it. Since then, it has become a worldwide phenomenon amassing over 100 awards in its lifetime.

It's not hard to see why this show has won so many awards. The singing and dancing gave me goose bumps. Most of the cast danced amongst the stage props, which was somehow chaotic and brilliant. The cast and ensemble often used every element of the stage in their dance routines. If they weren't twirling on swings, they would climb tables and gates, jumping on and from exercise mats. Their energy was exuberant; it was admirable how much effort was put into every movement, every sentence, and every song. Fortunately, this cast was filled with promising young performers.

What's most wonderful about this performance is the array of actors and actresses; spread between multiple children, the roles of Matilda and her peers are rotated amongst an extensive cast. You never know who you're going to get! I don't doubt that every little actress who plays Matilda exudes the same energy the Matilda I watched did; which was, confident, daring, intelligent, and kind.

Mrs. Trunchbull was terrifyingly funny. Her aggressive disdain for children and obnoxious gloating was so exaggerated, it was hard not to laugh. Richard Hurst, decked out in Trunchbull glamour, encapsulated her character extremely well. Very reminiscent of the 90’s movie we all know and love. Similarly, Matilda's horrible ‘parents’ carried that same rude, witty, but funny demeanour throughout the show. The comedy between the sad neglectful moments was a reminder for the young audience members that this is just a performance...a funny, slightly sad, and energetic performance.

In the end, the cast rolled their way onto the stage in an array of colourful scooters. Yes, even the adults. Overall, it was an amazing show. My little Niece was hypnotised by the performances, especially the dancing. I don't doubt that she’ll be asking to enrol in a performance arts school soon enough. It was way past her bedtime though, however, it’s the summer holidays and… sometimes you have to be a little bit naughty!