The new UK tour of Matilda the Musical opened at Leicester’s Curve last night, reaffirming why this RSC production has become such a modern classic. More than a decade since its premiere, Dennis Kelly’s sharp, subversive script and Tim Minchin’s witty, melodic score retain their bite and this new production feels both polished and full of fresh energy.
Under Matthew Warchus’ direction, the production fizzes with pace and precision. The familiar classroom chaos and home-life absurdity are delivered with verve, while the story’s darker edges – neglect, cruelty, defiance – are given enough emotional weight to keep it from ever feeling twee.
The cast is uniformly strong. Adam Stafford brings an enjoyably hapless edge to Mr Wormwood, while Rebecca Thornhill is gloriously over the top as Mrs Wormwood, her comic timing razor sharp. As Miss Trunchbull, Richard Hurst treads the line between the monstrous and menacing with skill; it’s a performance that’s as physically bold as it is precisely measured whilst in contrast, Tessa Kadler’s Miss Honey offers the warmth and sincerity the story needs.
At the heart of it all, Sanna Kurihara’s Matilda anchors the show with confidence and poise, her performance balancing intelligence, stillness, and defiance. The delightful children’s ensemble, alternating teams of young performers, deliver their numbers with impressive discipline and spirit – When I Grow Up remains a highlight, its aerial swings still capable of producing a collective intake of breath.
Visually, the design retains the iconic clutter of letters and books that’s become synonymous with the show, and the production makes full use of Curve’s generous stage space.
This new touring production captures the heart and mischief of Matilda with confidence. It’s funny, tightly performed, and genuinely moving. For audiences encountering the show for the first time, it remains a joyous reminder of the power of stories, imagination and quiet rebellion.
Matilda The Musical runs at Curve until the 25th October before touring the UK. Find out more at curveonline.co.uk or tour.matildathemusical.com
