This magnificent production of “Matilda The Musical” marks Summer Theatre of New Canaan’s 23rd season of award-winning shows presented by Melody and Ed Libonati and directed by daughter, Allegra.
The name “Matilda” is derived from German roots and refers to someone who is “Strong,” “Willful” and “Clever.” Matilda is played here by an amazingly talented 8-year-old, Charlotte Surak, who has all these attributes and never leaves the stage.
Matilda’s “dysfunctional” family is headed by “Mr. Wormwood” (Christopher Hudson Myers) and his wife (Rachel Macisaac Myers) who effectively play born yesterday characters. Likewise, the couple has a dumb son, “Michael” (Cooper Sadler) who adds to his sister’s torments.
Matilda is rejected by her parents simply because she is too smart for them. In order to gain attention, she plays some naughty tricks on her Dad. Thus, she is sent to Boarding School where she confronts its dreadful head mistress, “Miss Trunchbull” (Meghan Louise Taylor).
The huge cast of children of all ages, display some outstanding, individual talents and there are many lively, musical numbers and poignant songs.
Mary McNulty plays “Miss Honey” Matilda’s warm, understanding teacher and Keisha T. Fraser is the librarian to whom Matilda confides wishful fantasies that include amazing trapeze artists, Hannah Risner and Miguel-Andreas Garcia. The imposing, Bulgarian Mafia boss who sets things straight in the last act, is thunder-voiced, Anthony Cataldo.
Splendid background projections are by Ryan Shreve, choreography is by Eric Siretch and Robert Head directs his hidden orchestra.
While “Matilda,” will fast become every child’s heroine, you might wish to read the original story by Englishman Roald Dahl in advance. This is because Americans trying to speak with English accents are sometimes hard to understand. The musical plays for two more weekends in New Canaan High School’s air-conditioned auditorium. You can see the stage from everywhere and ample parking is free.
