Matilda the Musical comes to Murray Bridge for the first time

This sponsored post is brought to you by Unity College.

Matilda the Musical is the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.

The multi-award-winning musical based on a book by Roald Dahl, featuring original songs by Tim Minchin, is coming to Murray Bridge for the first time this week.

Tickets are selling fast to the Unity College production – a performance on Friday night is already sold out.

However, seats were still available for the opening night performance, at 7.30pm on Thursday, and shows at 1.30pm and 7.30pm on Saturday at the time of publication.

Director Amy Daniell said the show would explore the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination; and themes of courage, intelligence and standing up for what you believed was right, even when others said it was wrong.

It was also about growing up, she said: about making it clear that grown-ups do not know everything and children do not know nothing.

“In a world where dumbing-down our intelligence and our imaginations is sadly increasing, Matilda encourages us to ‘smarten up’ and embrace the positive things that showing your true self brings,” she said.

“It’s my hope that being part of this show reminds the performers and audience members that being yourself is the bravest, strongest and truest thing you can do, even when you’re grown up.”

Unity’s production would take place on a set with minimal dressing, she said, “where a story could be found in any shadow or behind any pastel coloured block, encouraging the audience to use their imaginations as a part of the storytelling”.

Keeley Rathjen will fill the starring role of Matilda Wormwood, with Brandon Dent as Miss Trunchbull and Pippa Stolarski as Miss Honey.

A nine-piece band will bring the show’s songs to life, while dozens of crew members have contributed to its sets, props, costumes, hair, makeup, sound, lighting, ticketing and promotion.

Doors will open half an hour prior to each performance at the Steeple, at the college’s senior campus on Owl Drive; and ushers will help audience members to their seats, in accordance with COVID-19 regulations.

The cost of admission is $25 for adults and $15 concession; children under five are free.

• Book your tickets: Visit www.trybooking.com or the front desk at Unity College.
• More information: www.unitycollege.sa.edu.au/matilda-the-musical.