Directed masterfully by Dave Grout, choreographed magically by Sue Dresser and musically directed by Cindy Naughton, the entire cast puts on a rousing performance that is lively, funny, disturbing, sad, and deeply moving by turns.
Eric Macksoud is a perfect as Miss Trunchbull, menacing, funny, and demented as he parades around the stage larger than life and dwarfing the large cast of children as the perfect bully. Robert Gustafson as Mr. Wormwood, Matilda's dishonest and repulsive father who is always calling Matilda a boy and touting the telly as the source of all wisdom, is wonderful. Grace Olmsted as the bimbo Mrs. Wormwood dances and prances and flaunts her shallowness in glorious ways. Miss Honey, the good teacher, is portrayed by the beautifully-voiced Amelia Morgan-Rothschild in the understated way that conveys the essence of a timid but good woman who is filled with love and care despite her damaged past. Ashleigh Thayer, as Matilda's best friend Lavender is sparkling. Phoebe Hazzard is perfect as the librarian, Mrs. Phelps, hyper-excitable and almost child-like as she reacts to Matilda's mesmerizing story-telling. The large ensemble of children commands the stage with their vibrant singing and dancing. In short, there is not a weak link in the entire production; everyone is outstanding.
At the heart of this production is the play's star, eleven-year-old Sophie Michel, who gives an incandescent performance as Matilda, one that will bring a lump to your throat. The voice, the acting, the stage presence by Ms. Michel will send you out of the theater flying on a cloud. She gives a luminous and dazzling performance, and whenever she takes center stage, you will be transfixed. She is spectacular.
And that she is my granddaughter fills me with gratitude, pride, and hope.
In these dark times, here is a beautiful production of a play that entertains, instructs, and sends the message that we need: Be naughty and revolt.
Or else, as Matilda reminds us:
"You might as well be saying that you think it's okay
And that's not right"
(Article changed on January 21, 2020 at 19:20)
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