The U.K.’s Matilda: The Musical is a staple in the British popular media as Matilda, a nearly 40 year old novel by Roald Dahl is brought to life yet again by the cast and the fantastic musical production in London’s Cambridge Theater. Matilda is a book that tells the story of a neglected and one might go as far as to say abused 5 year old girl who is constantly failed by her parents as well as the public school system alike. As an American listening to the British accents meant to accentuate the common British poor its hard to understand without having read the book but having read the book the characters come to life in a way that is clearly iconic. The musical numbers tell the story in a way that the book can not with beautiful songs like the “Miracle” parts 1, 2, and 3 that show us exactly th point that Roald Dahl had tried to explain about how children are typically brought up by their parents to believe they are miracles and special only to show the contrast in how Matilda was brought up by her horrible parents who let her know she’s nothing but a worm. Followed by other timeless musical numbers like “School song” where the students try to warn Matilda about how horrible these institutions like school can be. Of course Matilda has to witness exactly how terrible school can be as well as her parents who prefer to spend their time gambling in a dancing contest or selling terrible cars that break down.
Read Bhavith’s Breakdown: (Here’s a link to his Lion King review so you know what he’s contrasting)
“In contrast, Matilda the Musical at the Cambridge Theatre offered a different but equally enchanting magic, with its clever use of oversized props—books that flipped their pages in mid‑air, desks that shuffled and tapped in perfect unison—and a young cast whose boundless energy and precision brought Roald Dahl’s mischievous heroine to life with such clarity that you could almost feel her telekinetic spark in the very air; songs like “Naughty” danced on the edge of rebellion, underscored by sharp harmonies and playful rhythms, while the poignant reflection of “When I Grow Up” balanced whimsy with wistfulness, reminding us all that curiosity and courage are the truest forms of magic, and leaving the audience walking back into the night with smiles on their faces and inspiration in their hearts.”
All in all, MatildaL The Musical was an excellent adaptation of the book with iconic British characters that makes it a staple in British culture. Matilda, her family, Miss Honey, Miss Trunchbull, and Matilda’s friends are reanimated as the cast uses songs and the stage production to tell this what should be a horror story. In a comedic light. Much like Matilda’s story telling it leaves you wanting more and more until it comes to a beautifully fulfilling ending where the 5 year old girl can finally be herself in a loving home. While there’s many differences between the p,ay and the book it is an excellent retelling of the instant classic adored by children and adults the same so please read the book before you go!. 5/5 Brilliant play!!
(Pictured: Heather in front of the Matilda: The Musical sign)
Find out more about Matilda: The Musical at https://uk.matildathemusical.com/