FamilyMusicalReviewScotlandYouth Theatre

ED FRINGE: Matilda Jr. The Musical – theSpace @Surgeons Hall Grand Theatre, Edinburgh

Reviewer: Kia Lawrence

Writer: Roald Dahl

Music: Tim Minchin

Lyrics: Dennis Kelly and Tim Minchin

Book: Dennis Kelly

Director: Liam Nardone

Nardone’s Academy of Performing Arts brings you a fun and energetic performance of Matilda Jr the Musical. The musical brings to life the classic Roald Dahl children’s novel about a young girl who loves books but hates bullies. This is an abridged version created especially for younger performers which includes an adapted scripts and shortened versions of the songs created by Tim Minchin.

Erin Kempton as Matilda stands out within the cast as she brings to life the role. Her strong vocals and performance bring the mischievousness of the character to life but also makes her extremely likeable. Noah Brotherton who plays Bruce Bogtrotter has plenty of charisma that makes you really empathise with the character – his vocals during Revolting Children is also fantastic.

The ensemble are uniformly strong when performing together with their facial expressions being visible from the back row of the auditorium. Sadly the use of the thrust stage hindered the blocking of the show meaning at times elements of the show are missed or you are getting side views of cast members heads. Similar problems also arises with the lack of space during choreography of the musical numbers.

However, overall, the production is an extremely enjoyable one and the young cast are a delight to watch. They pull off the production effortlessly and will ensure that you leave with a smile on your face.

Runs until August 27, 2022

The Reviews Hub Score

Enjoyable

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The Reviews Hub - Scotland

The Scotland team is under the editorship of Lauren Humphreys. The Reviews Hub was set up in 2007. We aim to review all professional types of theatre, whether that be Commercial, Repertory or Fringe as well as Comedy, Music, Gigs etc.

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