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Matilda the Musical comes to Hallfield School!

A dazzling display of brilliance and magic: Matilda Jr. enchants the stage!

Published

4 July 2023

School

#Prep

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The stage was set, the lights dimmed, and the Year 6 cohort of Hallfield School stepped into the spotlight to captivate the audience with their enchanting production of Matilda Jr. Based on the beloved Roald Dahl novel and inspired by the hit musical, this adaptation brought to life the magical world of Matilda Wormwood and her extraordinary journey of self-discovery. The young performers embraced their roles with gusto, weaving a heart-warming tale of brilliance, resilience, and the power of standing up for what is right.

Hallfield Prep Hall transformed

The meticulously designed sets transformed the stage into Crunchem Hall Primary School, Miss Trunchbull’s menacing lair, and the cosy Wormwood household. Each scene immersed the audience in the story’s whimsical universe, enhancing the already captivating performances.

Curtain up!

In the titular role, Piya Samra brilliantly embodied the character of Matilda. Drawing inspiration from the memorable Matilda from both the original novel and the musical adaptation, they skilfully portrayed the young girl’s intellect, determination, and unwavering spirit. From her rebellious acts of defiance to her awe-inspiring telekinetic powers, every aspect of Matilda’s character was brought to life on stage, leaving the audience in awe.

First class performances

Beyond Matilda, the production showcased a host of unforgettable characters, each played with exceptional talent by Year 6 pupils. The cruel and villainous headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, played by Aleena, commanded the stage with her larger-than-life presence and commanding vocals. The mischievous escapades of Matilda’s classmates, Lavender, played by Amberley and the boisterous Bruce Bogtrotter played by Alex, provided moments of delightful humour and camaraderie.

The performances were elevated by the props such as the giant cake being eaten and Amanda Thripp being thrown over the railings. The heart-warming rendition of “When I Grow Up” resonated deeply with spectators of all ages, reminding us of the children’s impending transition to their secondary schools.

Behind the scenes

Behind the scenes, the dedication and hard work of the cast and crew shone through. The tireless efforts of the students and staff ensured that every detail was meticulously crafted. The energy and enthusiasm of the ensemble cast were infectious, inspiring the entire audience and leaving them spellbound.

Matilda Jr. is more than just an enchanting story; it carries valuable lessons for all who experience it. Matilda’s unwavering courage teaches us the importance of standing up for ourselves and what is right, even in the face of adversity. Her love for books and knowledge ignites a passion for learning and the power of education. The production beautifully conveyed the idea that our differences should be celebrated and that everyone deserves a chance to shine.

The Year 6 cohort's production of Matilda Jr. was a resounding success, capturing the hearts of all who witnessed its magic. From the stellar performances to the meticulous attention to detail, the production showcased the incredible talent and dedication of these young performers. Through the vibrant storytelling and inspiring characters, the audience was reminded of the importance of embracing one's uniqueness and standing up for what is right. Matilda Jr. proved to be an unforgettable experience, leaving an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to witness it.

Mr Woollhead, Head of Drama