A LITTLE GIRL FINDS SOLACE IN BOOKS
Children comprise the core of Roald Dahl’s widely read MATILDA now entertaining families at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts. And the youthful ensemble “smashingly” schools the audience in this exuberant, good vs. evil story. The opening number “Miracle” seals the deal from the gitgo as it introduces the company of actors, sets up the story, lays the groundwork for the winning musical score and highlights the children
However, not until the audience encounters the feisty Audrey Cymone (“Matilda Wormwood”) do all of us recognize and absorb the defining “heart” of the show. As the tale (shaped by Dennis Kelly) proceeds, both the young lady’s quest for learning and adventure and her resiliency when faced with challenges increasingly prove to be inspirational. The singing and acting requirements of the role alone recommend this youngster’s significant talent throughout the journey.
In this production, though, she is not the only one at the top of her game. The supporting cast deserve special mention, too. In particular, Constance Jewell Lopez (“Mrs. Phelps“)
Cheers for the lead players for their achievement in this cautionary story. Cartoonish (and dastardly) Erica Hanrahan (“Mrs. Wormwood”) and Josh Adamson (“Mr. Wormwood”) provide the sickening overdose of bad parenting skills to supreme effect.
Lastly, the menacing, bearded (btw hilarious) Michael A. Shepperd (“Miss Trunchbull”) corners the essence of evil in “his” portrayal of the feared, insidious schoolmistress gone berserk. (N.B. Friends, you’ll have to be patient for the end of the story to see whether or not “she” receives comeuppance).
Returning to the illustrious creative team of this production, a few thoughts are in order. Jennifer Lin ably conducts the 11 pc orchestra in showcasing Tim Minchin’s heralded score (with some contributions from Orchestrator Chris Nightingale). She also elicits a
On the technical side, kudos for the inventive setting of Stephen Gifford, the right-on-the-mark lighting of Steven Young, the smart costumes of Travis M. Grant and the luxurious sound design work of Josh Bessom. Applause for all and – likewise – those creatives not mentioned specifically. No doubt…all of the pieces of this puzzle fit snugly.
This McCoy Rigby Entertainment (i.e. MATILDA), receiving the full benefit of Producing Artistic
Pc: Jason Niedle