‘Matilda the Musical ’— entertainment at its best
Overflowing with energy and first-class entertainment, the opening night of the longawaited Matilda the Musical lived up to its promise of being a show that has it all.
Swift scene changes, beautiful lyrical voices and acting talent brought the production to life at the Savoy Theatre in Perridgevale.
Produced by the PE Gilbert and Sullivan Society as part of the company’s 90th anniversary and final show under the G&S banner, Matilda the Musical is a treat for all the senses.
Relatable to all audiences, with a twist of dark humour, musical numbers skilfully choreographed and spectacular lighting and set designs, the show takes the audience into another world.
Directed by Robin Williams, the show flows seamlessly with all the pomp and splendour associated with Broadway or London’s West End.
But Williams skilfully manages to weave the story together through added local elements.
Set to children’s author Roald Dahl’s Matilda and adapted for the stage by Dennis Kelly with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin, Matilda the Musical brings the audience into the world of a young girl thirsty for knowledge but held back by her incompetent parents and a mean school headmistress hell-bent on destroying lives.
As the show runs until October 8, Williams directed three different groups of youngsters to play the roles of key characters, who, including Matilda, take on the group of schoolchildren who befriend the young Matilda.
The three groups will perform over the production period, with Matilda played by Alayna Leander, Denika Pilay and Yolani Balfour, aged between eight and nine.
On opening night, Pilay played the role of Matilda to the tee and must be commended for her stage presence and acting talent, with a magical voice to boot.
The wretched Ms Trunchbull, played by theatre stalwart Greg Everard, is as staunch and demeaning in his character as he is funny and enjoyable to watch.
Ivana Mtikitiki as Mrs Phelps gives it all she has and keeps on giving.
Matilda’s parents, Mr and Mrs Wormwood, played by Bennie Gerber and Vanessa Grebe, are delightful in their characterisations of such despicable parents.
Neither is a stranger to the stage and this is evident in their commendable performances.
Ms Honey, Matilda’s muchloved teacher, played by Gemma Barnard, is elegant and delightful throughout the production.
Matilda the Musical runs until October 8.
Tickets are available through Webtickets online and at Pick n Pay.
They cost R160 or R120 for special family shows on September 24, 25, 27 and Sunday October 2.
Contact Rose Cowpar on 072-906-1977 for all inquiries.
Set to children’s author Roald Dahl’s Matilda and adapted for the stage by Dennis Kelly with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin, Matilda the Musical brings the audience into the world of a young girl thirsty for knowledge but held back by her incompetent parents and a mean school headmistress hell-bent on destroying lives.