Monday, January 31, 2011

MATILDA THE MUSICAL!

Friday evening I picked the girls up from school a little early and drove to Stratford Upon Avon. We had tickets for the RSC's MATILDA. The reviews have been amazing and the production is SOLD OUT. (I bought the tickets way way back before we moved last year). In a previous life, I've seen a lot of theatre and even more children's theatre (work and actor friends), but I can easily say, without ANY hesitation that this is the best of the best!

For a start, parking outside THE DIRTY DUCK/BLACK SWAN brought on fits of giggles. Toffee Apple muffins in the cafe added to the mood of jollity before we even took to our seats. The set took all the girls' attention as they tried to find words in lettered building blocks.

The show starts with a stage full of talented children singing and dancing (which is a bit of a shock). Our interest was captured and we barely blinked for the next two and a half hours. It is a very clever adaptation. It could have so easily become pantomime but always held back just enough. The girl who played Matilda was outstanding and brought an intensity and "stillness" to the role. Yes, liberties are taken with the story, but I think Mr Dahl may well have approved as it kept to his unique style of storytelling. There is a particularly magical scene using swings and a surprise "cabaret" turn during the interval, but I don't want to give away too much!

There is a rumour that it is to transfer to the West End and I strongly urge you to sign up for the RSC's email alerts and buy tickets quickly.....

"it's a wonderful life"

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