Matilda the Musical, Cambridge Theatre

Everyone is talking about Matilda the Musical… Tim Minchin and Dennis Kelly’s hit show has just been awarded the prestigious ‘Best Musical’ prize at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards 2011, and quite rightly so. Matilda has successfully transferred to the Cambridge Theatre after a sensational run at the Courtyard Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, and is delighting the London audience, young and old. I saw the show in its original home and the move to the West End has not altered its intimacy and magic, just added West End glitz.

The audience are buried beneath the tumbling books of Rob Howell’s awesome set, it is a far cry from the sultry black setting of Chicago, the previous show at the Cambridge. Roald Dahl’s 1988 novel tells the story of an extraordinary little girl, who against all odds overcomes the hatred of her uncaring, ignorant parents and nasty headmistress using her supernatural powers to help herself and her friends. Director Matthew Warchus' vision is original and inventive - there is a particularly beautiful sequence with children on swings in the second half, that made several audience members around me gasp. My little sister beside me looked up to the stage enviously, and the second we got home she looked up the audition specifications, even I left wanting to be in the Matilda gang, it all looks like so much fun!

The whole cast are fantastic, and work together beautifully presenting a well paced, polished performance. The children are most impressive, with unbelievable confidence and self assurance, they are mesmerising - acting, singing and dancing perfectly. There are four Matildas who alternate playing the exhausting title role, I saw little Kerry Ingram, who is a sensation. She has a quirky character that she brings to the role, certainly not your usual stage school kid - she is an individual girl with star quality. Her classmates are brilliant too, Zachary Harris as Bruce has a smashing, soulful voice, and Ruby Bridle as Lavender is hilarious and feisty. It wouldn’t be possible to write a review of this show and not mention Bertie Carvel who rules the roost, giving a hysterical portrayal of cruel headmistress Miss Trunchbull… his mannerisms and tone of voice made me giggle nonstop, though he could also be pretty terrifying.

Tim Minchin is a genius, and has succeeded in capturing the imagination of Roald Dahl in a show that will makes people both laugh and cry. The music has sharp wit paired with an affecting sensitivity, that is sure to result in a few tears, and the memorable tunes, like ‘When I Grow Up’ are sure to increase the popularity of this musical.

Matilda the Musical is a magical and moving production that will thrill the whole family, it is the only show you HAVE to see this Christmas.

MATILDA continues until 21 October 2012, book here.

Matilda the Musical

Matilda is the brand new musical creation from Aussie comedian and musician Tim Minchin, with a marvellous script from Dennis Kelly. The run is taking place at The Courtyard Theatre, part of the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford upon Avon. Once again I found myself amongst a gaggle of children, all clutching their Roald Dahl colouring pads and consuming copious sugary bribes from their parents.

It took us a while to drive there, especially with the distinct lack of signposts, surprising considering the importance of this theatre to Stratford. Eventually we found it, parked and wandered through the picturesque town to the venue. The 1000 plus seat Courtyard Theatre was not intended to be permanent, but merely a temporary home during the company’s Transformation project. Those who see Matilda in this building will, I’m sure, agree that it works perfectly for this piece.

Matilda is yet another example of the super kids that seem to be taking over stages everywhere; think of Billy Elliot and Oliver! Just as the little girl’s thoughts rule Dahl’s book, the tiny actress playing Matilda dominates this production and is on stage most of the time. There are ten children in the musical, and three casts, allowing them to alternate regularly. I saw brave and bold Josie Griffiths take to stage as the lead, and she was faultless, giving a performance that would put many adults to shame. I sat gawping at the tiny star, wondering how on earth she managed to learn all those lines, songs, and complicated dance moves. The other kids are brilliant too, and just as talented, I soon forgot they were children - the acting is so impressive.

Director Matthew Warchus has taken a terrific story and made it into an irresistible show. The choreography is beyond imaginative, with fun rebellions and punchy gym routines. For a first show, the Minchin – Kelly duo have written an unbeatable piece, surpassing all expectations. The songs are thoughtful and catchy, with words that sizzle. The story captures Dahl’s magical world, with a clever twist that gives the characters a real sense of depth.

The terrifyingly fabulous Miss Trunchbull is played by Bertie Carvel making his debut at the RSC with Matilda. He marches about spitting orders with sadistic glory. There is a wonderful scene when the headmistress forces poor Bruce to eat a giant chocolate cake, gleefully rubbing her chubby paws together in delight. The ghastly Wormwood parents are played by thrillingly grotesque pair Josie Walker and Paul Kaye, the cruel opposite to Matilda’s intelligence.

I’m afraid I can’t find a bad word to say about this show; there is nothing to criticise and is much more fun than I expected. And I am not the only one raving about it - Matilda has received five star reviews from everyone who’s anyone. I have all my fingers and toes crossed that this show will transfer to a London stage soon, I am desperate to see it again.

Matilda is on until 30 January 2011 at The Courtyard Theatre.