Matilda the Musical Review: A Stunning Encore!

Matilda the Musical returns to Singapore after a 5-year hiatus.

In 2019, we were treated to one of the best family musicals to hit Singapore shores. Back then, we were captivated by the catchy tunes, the sleek choreography, the lavish sets and the outstanding performances.

Matilda the Musical

This time around, the storyline endeared us to the musical. The dark underlying tones of abuse and bullying were balanced by comical physical performances.

We were awestruck this time around; the magic returns with a spectacular set and ridiculously charming performances.  The comedic and witty pace had us in stitches, the choreography kept us on the edge of our seats, and the performance left us clamouring for more!

Photo Credit: Matilda the Musical International Tour

Kudos to GWB Entertainment and The Royal Shakespeare Company for producing this masterpiece- Matilda the Musical. Presented by Base Entertainment, this is a must-see for families as laughter, life lessons, and pure theatrical delight await you.

The Show

Matilda the Musical is based on the 1988 novel by Roald Dahl. It centres on the main character, Matilda Wormwood, a precocious five-year-old girl who loves reading but faces abusive parents at home and a tyrannical headmaster at school. She does have a special talent up her sleeve—telekinesis, which can level the playing field.

Photo Credit: Matilda the Musical International Tour

The Royal Shakespeare Company originally staged the musical before its West End debut in 2011. The musical has since garnered 101 international awards, including 24 for Best Musical.

Photo Credit: Matilda the Musical International Tour

We are privileged to have the original company performing this musical in Singapore. This was more polished than the last run in town, with better choreography and refined performance.

The Standouts

Yolani Balfour, who played the Protagonist, was outstanding as Matilda. She was one of three performers who played the title role. Her expression was spot-on, and the vocals were superb, especially during the storytelling, which kept us engrossed. Her heart-touching performance endeared her to the audience and had us rooting for her throughout the show.

One can feel her tinge of sadness at the character's lowest post and share in her triumph when Matilda asserts herself in the play.

Photo Credit: Matilda the Musical International Tour

Special mentions to  James Wolstenholme's scary portrayal of Miss Trunchbull and Matthew Towland as the hilarious Mr Wormwood, Emily Squibb as the hilarious Mrs Wormwood, Gemma Scholes as the conflicted Miss Honey and Ryan Anderson as Rudolpho who nearly stole the show with his sexy Tango moves.

The set itself is inspiring. Think Charlie and the Chocolate Factory meet Alice in Wonderland. While the stage size is limited, the way it transformed from the living room of Wormwoods to the classes of Crunchem Hall is a work of art.

Photo Credit: Matilda the Musical International Tour

There are plenty of noteworthy acts throughout the show. From the well-choreographed The School Song to the hilarious tango dance to the jaw-dropping Swinging and the foot-stomping finale, the Revolting act will leave you captivated in this mesmerising performance. 

Photo Credit: Matilda the Musical International Tour

This is more than just a musical. The witty dialogue, the physical comedy, the immersive performances and the surprising twist in the tale bring live Ronald Dahl's book on stage.

Who is this for?

While Matilda may seem like a children show, . 

This was one of the wittiest musicals we watched. Look out for Mr. Wormwood's antics and the hysterically funny rumba romp. It will make a great family musical or a dating musical. It's a musical for everyone!

Which seat to choose

The Stalls will be the best seats in the house. We were seated on the side in the middle of the theatre and the view was perfect. At Sands Theatre, even the 2nd and 3rd floor seats are unobstructed and will make decent viewing.

Tickets information

Tickets are now available at Marina Bay Sands for $68. Maybank card members receive an exclusive 15% discount across all categories. The show runs at Sands Theatre from 9 March to 7 April. It will last 140 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission.

For front-row seats, it is exclusively available via Klook.

Official Merchandise can be purchased during the performance.

Disclosure
Special thanks to Base Entertainment for the invitation to the Gala Premiere. All opinions are our own.