Matilda The Musical, Cambridge Theatre Review
Photo by Manuel HarlanWritten by Annie for Theatre and Tonic.
Disclaimer: Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review. All views are my own.
After the film musical taking the world by a storm in 2022, it’s fair to say the hype around the musical shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Last night, we were spoiled by an invitation for a return trip to Matilda The Musical at the Cambridge Theatre, and I'd almost forgotten how wonderfully special this show is.
There are very few opportunities for child actors to break into the West End in anything more than a small role, but Matilda puts the kids front and centre - shining a light on the magical young talent on offer in the UK. Honestly, it is hard to watch this show and not feel totally in awe of the young cast- to be a triple threat at such a young age is just outstanding.
Matilda is a show which has been adored by fans for years. Still playing at the Cambridge Theatre 13 years after its West End premiere - there is no question about it being a solid pillar in the West End’s architecture. Dennis Kelly’s book beautifully honours the novel by Roald Dahl, whilst managing to translate it so perfectly for the stage. Tim Minchin is nothing short of a born genius - his lyrics are a work of art, and I can guarantee almost everyone will know at least one song from the show even without ever seeing it, due to their catchy yet ingenious nature.
The ‘school song’ is just pure art - and watching it live just adds even more complexity to its already incredible structure. Not only for the intelligence of the lyrics but also for the technicalities of the choreography and staging. ‘Naughty’ enables Matilda (played by Estella Evans on the evening we visited) to fully take centre stage, affirming her character’s self-assuredness and ambition, and what a talent she is to dominate the stage with such total ease.
The entire young ensemble performs with such confidence it feels totally natural and as an audience you are able to immerse yourself into the world from the very first note. The adult ensemble assists the young cast beautifully, seamlessly performing as a cooperative group despite the constantly changing cast list - it feels as if the cast you see that night are the core cast every single night.
The choreography - by Peter Darling - has been curated with the music at the forefront. Feeling entirely contemporary and energetic whilst still considering the more natural dance styles of a young generation, it feels age appropriate in each number. The energy does not drop once throughout the show, and each song is perfectly choreographed to fit the style and intention of the song, not one character is misplaced in their numbers. It feels entirely natural and fitting, whilst still retaining pure energy and glee.
Mrs Truchball is wonderfully portrayed by Kiernan Hill, who performs the role with such conviction, playing the role with the intended looming terror, yet embodies all the adored characteristics of a pantomime dame. It creates a wonderful blend of fear and humour - as is intended - yet is done with such ease it is a total joy to watch him. It is a role curated for both children and adults to enjoy, and there is no doubt both age brackets were laughing at one point or another throughout.
Lydia White portrays Miss Honey stunningly. Perfectly bringing the character’s maternal, caring side to the stage yet tragically highlighting their own fears which are overcome with the help of her students. Her voice is just buttery soft and warms the ears of the entire audience, creating that calming safe space you’d expect from Miss Honey.
Rob Howell’s staging is wonderfully playful, bringing the innocence of the story to life whilst still feeling as if it’s been picked straight out of a storybook in its imaginative childish feel. It feels magical from start to finish, a particular highlight is the swing choreography in ‘When I Grow Up’ which perfectly embodies everything that the song is about.
Simon Baker’s sound design perfectly captures the imaginative world created by Matilda - with her stories he retells in the library - vocalised through her mind but played out in the background through Baker’s sound, and light by Hugh Vanstone.
Matilda is the musical that keeps on giving, inspiring the younger generation of what they are capable of - whilst remaining lighthearted and a fun night out for the whole family to enjoy. It is the perfect introductory show for children into the wonder of the West End - mixing the magic of musical theatre, with the more relaxed audience approach of pantomimes. I certainly don’t see this show going anywhere anytime soon, and can’t wait for more children to be introduced to this very special show.
Currently booking until 25 May 2025. Grab your Matilda The Musical tickets now!
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
