Thursday, March 6 was the opening show for Kingsway’s Spring musical, “Matilda”. Complete with exciting musical numbers, a captivating storyline, and a lovable and talented cast, this musical was one of Kingsway’s best yet, leaving the audience marveled by the immense talent and hard work of all those involved.
The Roald Dahl musical centers around Matilda Wormwood (Leah Blatt), a witty and exceptionally talented young girl often misunderstood by her oblivious brother (Christopher Burke) and neglectful parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood (Michael Schultz and Grace Lamonaca). Despite these challenges, she finds peace in her books and the sweet librarian, Molly Kathryn.
The story follows her as she navigates school and befriends a kind teacher, Miss Honey (Grace Palladinetti). This is where she meets the terrorizer of the school and the cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull (Mason Corey), and discovers her terrorizing activities.
Throughout the musical, Matilda tells the love story of an escapologist (Landyn Pollard) and an acrobat (Haley Blair) and their astounding career. The story ends solemnly when they are forced to put on a dangerous trick by the escapologist’s sister, despite the acrobat’s pregnancy. The ruthless escapologist’s sister, after the passing of the acrobat, mistreats the daughter.
Eventually the escapologist discovers the mistreatment, but he disappears after claiming he will confront his sister. In a shocking turn of events, it is revealed the story is Miss Sunny’s life. And the escapologist’s sister? None other than Miss. Trunchbull.
As Matilda gains confidence, she uses her abilities to bring justice and create a better life for herself and those she cares about. The story ends happily with Miss Honey opting to take care of Matilda and be her guardian.
While some passionate performers had their firsts with this performance such as underclassmen Kylie Pratta, Emma Elisabeth, and Sophie Verdinelli. Others had their lasts including upperclassmen Emily Ferry, and production staff Nyla Perry, Kamiah Schofield, and Makayla Kline, enjoying their last few moments as Kingsway performers and helpers. Some notable and quite iconic performers included sophomore Brennen Brown playing Bruce, freshman Sophia Nasuti playing Amanda Thripp, and senior Tigris Gray playing Lavender.
The show was remarkable, displaying the immense talent and passion of the students. Under the direction of Lauren Barr, orchestral direction by Patrick Carpenter, and production and choreography by Sarah Reynolds, the performance was not only enjoyable, but truly admirable, with colorful sets, showstopping costumes, and illuminating lights.
The show truly came to life with the help of the costume team, hair and makeup team, lighting, sound, properties, and run crew, all led by different students who were dedicated to making this show the best.
Starting with “Miracle” and ending with “Revolting Children”, this musical’s unbelievably talented cast and team has left an indelible mark on Kingsway’s theatre. “Matilda” will be a performance for the books.
By Nethiri Umashanger
