Matilda magic in Wendouree

AN ensemble cast of sixty-five Ballarat Grammar performers is presenting Matilda the Musical this week at the Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts.

The high-energy show based on Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s story is full of singing, dancing, acting, spectacular sets and Revolting Children.

Director Callan Lewis said the cast on-stage, from year 7 to 12, are supported by 16 backstage crew members and a “toe-tapping” student orchestra.

He expects Matilda will reacquaint adult audience members with their inner child and excite them, after a 2020 without theatre.

“With music and lyrics written by Tim Minchin, audiences will enjoy the humour and the energy behind the story, getting to see the world through a child’s perspective again,” he said.

“It’s been a fantastic choice for our students to experience this show, given the story is about being at school and they’re at that age.

“The students have amazed me, involved in all aspects; lighting, stage management, assistant directing and choreographing. It’s the students bringing the whole story together, and it’s a big learning process for them.”

Year 12 Daisy Rogers is playing the “huge” title role. She said becoming Matilda over the last five months – a “mature yet young” character – has been challenging but full of fun.

“It’s a relatable show, featuring family and school with a sense of magic. It gives kids hope,” she said.

“I like how my character gets to work with the entire cast, not just the leads. It’s been exciting to develop relationships, connect with people in the younger year levels, and see the staff and production team put their heart and soul into it.

“It’s been special to create these lifelong friendships in the theatre, because in other sports, you don’t often get the same opportunity to connect with people outside your age group.”

Matilda opens tomorrow night, Thursday, 15 July, with a 7.30pm show. Friday, 16 and Saturday, 17 July will have evening performances at the same time, and a 2pm matinee will also run on Saturday.

Visit bit.ly/36tlf5Q for tickets.