Sell-Out Success: Local Youth Theatre All Set to Take Centre Stage for ‘Matilda JR. The Musical’

Matilda JR. The Musical. Talisman Theatre. Photo by Robert Warner.

The Talisman Theatre in Kenilworth is eagerly looking forward to welcoming audiences for their upcoming youth theatre production, ‘Roald Dahl's Matilda JR. The Musical’ which opens next week. With a cast of talented young performers, the production is poised to captivate audiences with its magical storytelling and memorable performances.

Inspired by Roald Dahl's beloved novel, ‘Matilda JR. The Musical’, with the book by Dennis Kelly complete with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin, this promises to bring to life the story of Matilda (played by Sophie Burton), a courageous and intelligent young girl with extraordinary powers, who dares to take a stand against the injustices she faces.

Mr. Wormwood (Will Sale) and Matilda (Sophie Burton). Photo by Robert Warner.

The much-loved story follows Matilda as she navigates her indifferent and neglectful parents and the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, played by Natasha Hall.

A brilliant and precocious girl, Matilda soon discovers her own resilience and courage, along with some newfound abilities, and takes a stand against injustice, empowering her fellow students and her teacher, Miss Honey, played by Amy Jolliffe.

R: Miss Honey (Amy Jolliffe) and L: Miss Trunchbull (Natasha Hall). Photo by Robert Warner.

From heartwarming moments to exhilarating musical numbers, the production is expected to enchant audiences of all ages, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who attends.

Director, Caroline McCluskey, who has been running the Talisman’s Youth Theatre now for six years, expresses immense pride in the cast and crew's dedication and hard work, stating, "Matilda JR. The Musical will be a testament to the incredible talent and commitment of our entire company of young performers.

The strict and intimidating headmistress, Miss Trunchbull (Natasha Hall). Photo by Robert Warner.

“It has been a joy to witness their growth and passion throughout the rehearsal process, and I am so excited to have the opportunity to bring this magical story to life on stage. And to all the parents that have helped behind the scenes as well - we are truly grateful - this really has been a team effort!”

Joint Artistic Director, Steve Smith commented, “As a community based theatre, we’re extremely proud to offer our youth theatre members the opportunity each year to take part in a mainstage production. This comes complete with the support of the technical and creative teams to help bring the show to life from sound, lighting, set design, costume and props.

Mr Wormwood (Will Sale) gets a taste of his own medicine! Photo by Robert Warner.

“It’s incredible to watch the talent grow year on year, and to witness the confidence of the entire cast develop given the opportunity to take on different roles, whether that be a main role or taking part in the ensemble. It's something we’re keen to continue to nurture as part of our involvement in the local community.”

‘Matilda JR. The Musical’, which is fully sold out even after adding an extra date due to popular demand, runs from Wednesday 13th March to Saturday 16th March. As the curtains prepare to rise on this sell-out production, the Talisman Theatre looks forward to continuing to inspire and entertain audiences with its future productions for the year ahead which can be booked via the website www.talismantheatre.co.uk or by contacting Box Office direct on 01926 856548.