Matilda The Musical
Cambridge Theatre
Reviewed on Saturday 26th October 2013
Take one of the most well known children's stories of all time, add in the stunning book by Dennis Kelly and the lyrical genius of Aussie comic Tim Minchin and one of the most versatile companies currently in the West End - and what do you get?
Starting life as an RSC production in Stratford Upon Avon and moving to London's Cambridge Theatre in October 2011, the success of Matilda continues to grow by the day. Not content with a plethora of Olivier Awards, and transferring the show to huge success on Broadway, tickets to this outstanding show continue to be like goldust to theatregoers around the world, and after a recent visit - my third in total - it is very easy to see why.
When you walk into the auditorium you are greeted with an awe-inspiring sight. The stage set is one of the most complex yet most simplistic that I have ever seen. The use of letter blocks throughout, especially through the upwards cascade, makes more links to the show than you may realise, and the on-stage set itself complements the style, passion and unique beauty of this classic story.
This utter amazement continues through every song in the show. Tim Minchin's ingenious lyrics fit the tone of the show perfectly, and even for me (as a nearly 29 year old teacher) I can still relate to the message behind some of the songs, and as a result feel totally drawn in to Matilda's story. Special mention must go to the songs reserved for Agatha Trunchbull - "The Hammer" and "Smell of Rebellion". I cannot imagine how difficult it must have been to create lyrics for such a strong, powerful yet evilly eccentric character, but Minchin captures the essence perfectly and these are definitely two of the stand out moments for me, amongst many others.
The energy amongst this cast is beyond phenomenal - and some of the highest I have ever seen in the West End - in fact, in any theatre production I have seen! The diversity in age also means that audience members always feel there is a character they can relate to. Whether it is the timid Miss Honey (Haley Flaherty) who learns courage from Matilda in order to stand up to her evil Aunt; Bruce Bogtrotter (Robbie Warke), whose chocolate eating antics make for a very entertaining end to Act 1; Matilda's "best friend" Lavender (Emily Robins), who can't keep a secret but has an amusing encounter with a newt; or Mrs Wormwood (Madeleine Harland), who just wants to dance; there is someone for everyone to believe in.
However, the stand out performance comes from Georgia Pemberton who is the most charismatic Matilda I have ever seen. She plays the role with such confidence, precision and emotion that you are totally drawn in and feel every emotion on her roller coaster journey. Antonio Magro (on for Ms Trunchbull in place of Alex Gaumond) was also an absolute revelation! He brought a particular evil streak to the Trunchbull that I had never seen before, but found the perfect balance between the witty and comical sides of the tyrannical Headteacher and was nothing short of outstanding!
Just because Matilda is based on the Roald Dahl classic, do not assume this is just a show for the kids. On every level it allows an audience of all ages to engage with one of the most heartwarming stories ever told, and I defy anyone not to leave the Cambridge Theatre full of joy and the biggest smile on their face. As the song says: "Sometimes you've got to be a little bit naughty!"
Reviewed by Olivia Edmonds
contact@westendframe.com
Matilda is currently booking at the Cambridge Theatre until 6th July 2014.
Click here to book tickets.
To read more of Olivia's work, visit www.thoughtsofablueeyedgirl.blogspot.co.uk.
Reviewed by Olivia Edmonds
contact@westendframe.com
Matilda is currently booking at the Cambridge Theatre until 6th July 2014.
Click here to book tickets.
To read more of Olivia's work, visit www.thoughtsofablueeyedgirl.blogspot.co.uk.
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