Expect miracles and mischief when Matilda, the musical inspired by Roald Dahl's beloved bestseller, magics its way to Milton Keynes Theatre this week, writes
Georgina Butler.
Following the sell-out success of its first tour in 2018, the Royal Shakespeare Company’s multi-award-winning production is back on the road. As a creative and
witty adaptation of Dahl’s darkly funny 1988 children’s novel, it is introducing a whole generation of theatregoers to the idea that “sometimes you have to be a little bit naughty” in order to take a stand and change your own story.
Matilda Wormwood is an extraordinary little girl, born to neglectful and self-absorbed parents. She escapes into a wonderful world of books from a very early age, which fast-tracks the development of her astonishing intelligence, vivid imagination, unyielding sense of justice and… burgeoning telekinetic powers!
Despite being dismissed and discouraged by her parents, Matilda impresses her lovely schoolteacher, Miss Honey, and finds a sense of belonging in the classroom.
Still, school is no sanctuary: the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, despises children and relishes terrorising both students and staff. Fortunately, Matilda has
courage and cleverness in equal amounts.
But will her exceptional efforts be enough to save Miss Honey, the students and herself from all the bullying and injustice?
Matilda has won over 100 international awards, including 24 for best musical. The show premiered at the Courtyard Theatre in Stratford-Upon-Avon in late 2010 and has been performed in 100 cities across 18 countries. It really is a global phenomenon.
The musical is written by Dennis Kelly, with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. It is directed by Matthew Warchus, choreographed by Peter Darling and designed by Rob Howell. The spirited songs include ‘Naughty’, ‘When I Grow Up’ and ‘Revolting Children’.
Four child actors are alternating in the title role of Matilda: Madison Davis, Mollie Hutton, Olivia Ironmonger and Sanna Kurihara. They are joined by Richard Hurst as Miss Trunchbull, Tessa Kadler as Miss Honey, Adam Stafford as Mr Wormwood and Rebecca Thornhill as Mrs Wormwood.
Running time: Approximately 2 hours 35 minutes, including an interval.
Age guidance: 6+
Matilda is at Milton Keynes Theatre from Wednesday 28 October to Saturday 14 November. The UK tour continues until 17 January 2027.
Georgina Butler is an editor, a dance writer and a ballet teacher. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) @GeorginaLButler and Instagram @glbdancewriter
