With just over 24 hours until the show’s opening, the anticipation for the upcoming production of Matilda is still spreading through the halls of SHS. In case you haven’t heard about the show yet–which at this point is nearly impossible–or have any questions about the production, cast, and performance times, here’s what you need to know!
The Broadway musical, based on the 1996 film and 1988 novel, follows the story of the brilliant young girl Matilda Wormwood, who uses her extraordinary powers and genius to overcome the challenges she faces at home and school. After speaking with director Elizabeth Clancy, it was made clear that the high school’s production of the show has “lots of dynamic elements” that will be exciting for any audience to watch.
Playing the lead of Matilda Wormwood is SHS junior Addie Swan, who Clancy described as an “insanely talented” actress and singer who can handle a role with as much magnitude as Matilda.
Matilda’s parents, the Wormwoods, are crazy, kooky, and comedic characters who will be played by SHS seniors Scarlett Hickman and John Driscoll.
Miss Trunchbull, the tyrannical headmistress of Matilda’s school, will be played by SHS senior Callie Loefell, who takes on the role with the “ambiguity” needed to succeed.
SHS sophomore Ella Sharpe will play Miss Honey, who juxtaposes Miss Trunchbull with her sweet characteristics and care toward Matilda as one of her students.
Enjoying her second year as director for SHS Drama, Clancy described how she loves to have “creative liberty” when directing and admires getting to see her vision come to life with the work of the students and staff. Her assistant director–and also the choreographer of the show–is Halle Pratt. Other leads of the crew are as follows:
- Technical Director: Josh Heath
- Music Director: SHS music teacher William Richter
- Stage Manager: SHS senior Sophie Blanchard
- Head of Set: SHS sophomores Aidan Campbell and EK Labadia
- Head of Sound: SHS junior Jonah Riedel
- Head of Lights: SHS junior Clement Dumet
- Head of Costumes: SHS senior John Driscoll
- Head of Hair and Makeup: SHS junior Ginger Stone
- Head of Props: SHS senior Scarlett Hickman
Excitingly enough, along with the band hired to play for the production, five student musicians are joining them: SHS seniors Matthew Carolan, Matthew Short, Riley Nidositko, Patrick McClelland, and SHS junior Brendan McCarthy.
As the spring musical is set to open on Friday, April 5th, it’s important to recognize how much work goes into this type of production–with months of planning and rehearsals. Participating students have dedicated countless hours because they love the process and want to put on an excellent show for their audience!
So, go support your peers and see Matilda! There will be three performances, giving you lots of opportunity to find a time that works for you:
- Friday, April 5th, 7:00 PM
- Saturday, April 6th, 7:00 PM
- Sunday, April 7th, 2:00 PM
General Admission is $15 per ticket. However, for SHS staff, students, and children under 12, it’s only $10 per ticket!