Magical, mischievous ‘Matilda’ comes to Cumberland County

Audiences will revel in the exuberance of childhood and the power of imagination when Cumberland County Playhouse presents Roald Dahl’’s “Matilda The Musical” beginning Friday, June 14, in Crossville, Tennessee.

“It is a dream to bring this whimsical, heartwarming, magical show to life on our stage,” says director Jess Griffin.

“‘Matilda’ is the perfect family musical, sure to enchant audiences of all ages with its high-energy numbers, sharp wit and empowering message of daring to stand up for what’s right.”

An inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life, this Tony and Olivier Award-winning musical features a delightfully clever script and inventive songs.

Matilda (doublecast with Kyra Crosby and Sarah Hedrick) is a girl of astonishing wit and intelligence. Unloved by her parents (Britt Hancock and Leila Jones) and ignored by her brother (Cory Clark), she bonds with a kindhearted librarian (Weslie Webster) and schoolteacher Miss Honey (Larren Woodward) over the course of Kyra Crosby, left, and Sarah Hedrick will alternate performances in the title role of Matilda at the Cumberland County Playhouse.

her first school term.

Matilda’’s school life isn’t completely smooth sailing, though. The school’s headmistress, Miss Trunchbull

(Jason Ross), hates children and delights in dreaming up new punishments for students who disobey the rules. Matilda’s classmates are

If you go

› What: “Matilda The Musical”

› Where: Cumberland County Playhouse, 221 Tennessee Ave., Crossville, Tenn

› When: Multiple shows June 14-Aug. 18

› Admission: $18, $32, $34

› For more information: 931-4845000 played by Maggie Cook, Madelyn Hedrick, Luke Patton, Kylan Ritchie, Luke Smith, Tori Smith, Shelton Tison, Kendall Walker and Altair Zentgraf.

But even in the face of Miss Trunchbull’s seemingly unstoppable villainy, Matilda’s courage and cleverness save the day while teaching her fellow students that everyone has the power to change their story.

Ron Murphy is serving as musical director for the show; Leila Jones is choreographer.

“Matilda The Musical” is rated PG, and runs through Aug. 18. Tickets can be purchased online at ccplayhouse.com or by calling 931-484-5000.

BARRY BROWN IMAGES