‘Matilda’, a story which I have previously discussed, is currently one of the most popular musicals currently running on London’s West end, and has been so for the past four years. On Saturday, 23rd of August, I was fortunate enough to attend the matinee showing at the Cambridge Theatre, in Soho, London. Despite the cast containing none of its original show members, the acting space was the same as the productions first ever showing, and that sense of originality certainly came through. This spectacular show is certainly worthy of its fifteen awards (and that’s only the West End version!) Hopefully its run will continue, and maybe one day, even rival that of ‘Wicked’ (ten years on Broadway).
Planning for the musical began in 2005, when relatives of Roald Dahl (writer of the original ‘Matilda’ approached the Royal Shakespeare Company (who will hereafter be reffered to as RSC) and asked that they develop the story into a musical. Many had approached Dahl’s wife before, asking for permission, and she had refused them. However, she felt that the RSC had the right amount of energy, and enthusiasm, to convey Dahl’s original and true message. Planning began. Screenwriter Dennis Kelly, author of such television shows as ‘Spooks’ and ‘Utopia’, was asked to pen the story by RSC, and agreed. In turn, he then called in comedian and musician Tim Minchin, famous for his stand up, to compose and write the songs. Interestingly enough, Minchin was one of those who had previously asked permission to turn ‘Matilda’ into a musical. Both men’s affection from the story is clear; when watching the production, it is impossible to say it is anything less than a labour of love.
A common piece of advice that you’ll receive in the theatrical, film, and television industry is ‘Don’t work with children, or with animals’. As the protagonist of this specific musical is a child, as are many of the characters, working with children is, however, mandatory. The production manages to deal with this well enough; there are only nine children in the cast, including the title role of Matilda, meaning they do not overwhelm the director. Of course, when school scenes are performed, more bodies are needed to create a playground atmosphere - this is when the adult chorus comes in, trussed up in uniform, artistic licence allowing them to pass as fellow kids. Our Matilda was portrayed by a little Irish girl - despite her outstanding English accent, when singing; she did tend to slip back into her original diacritic. Nevertheless, for a nine year old, with a highly impressive range, this is entirely forgivable. With an incredibly talented cast, mesmerising dance numbers, and a gorgeous set, it was difficult not to get lost in the world of ‘Matilda’.
As previously stated, the musical is nothing short of a labour of love. This is usually true of most theatrical productions, but the adoration of the cast and crew for this tale certainly shone through in their performances. Suitable, educational, and enjoyable for all ages, the production is without a doubt, worth seeing.
Images: https://ladygeekgirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/matildathemusicaloriginalcastmatilda.png
http://cdn1.timminchin.com/wp-content/uploads/Tim-Minchin-Kerry-Ingram-Adrianna-Bertola-Josie-Griffiths-all-RSC-Matildas-2.jpg
0 Comment:
Be the first one to comment on this article.