SNAPA Brings Humor and Heart with 'Matilda the Musical'
(Sponsored by Tinsley Law & Title, Holt Wrecker, R&R lawn specialists, Gibson Pharmacy)
By Michael V. Hannigan
I owe somebody an apology. I laughed so loud during "Matilda the Musical" Thursday night, I’m pretty sure I annoyed the neighbors. But when you see this cast—young and old—deliver their hilarious performances, you’ll understand why. From start to finish, the entire ensemble keeps you entertained in this fast-paced Stage Notes Academy of Performing Arts production, making it impossible not to crack up.
Based on Roald Dahl’s classic story, "Matilda the Musical" follows the journey of a brilliant young girl with extraordinary powers. Despite being unloved by her cruel parents, Matilda impresses her kind schoolteacher, Miss Honey, who quickly recognizes her potential. But life a terrifying headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, seems to enjoy punishing the children. Armed with her wit, courage, and a few magical abilities, Matilda just might be the hero her classmates need.
At the center of it all is Ellie Collins, who shines in the title role of Matilda. She’s got star quality that makes you pay attention when she’s on stage. Troy Martin is larger-than-life as Miss Trunchbull and practically unrecognizable in his extraordinary makeup. E. Robb and Nicole Killian are horribly, wonderfully funny as the Wormwoods, and Savanah Joblin-Smith as Miss Honey adds the heart needed to keep it all grounded.
But what makes this production special is that it’s not just about the main characters. Every cast member has their moment to shine. From the spirited schoolkids to Rudolpho the dancer, this is a talented team effort.
The show opens Friday night, Sept. 27. Performances are Sept. 27-29 and Oct. 4-6, with 7 p.m. showtimes on Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m. matinees on Sundays. The Stage Notes Academy is located at 224 N. Prairieville Street in Athens. Tickets will go fast and are available at stagenotesapa.com.
"Matilda the Musical" is directed by Karen Holmes with assistant director Savannah Joblin-Smith. The cast includes:
Ellie Collins as Matilda
Troy Martin as Miss Trunchbull
Savanah Joblin-Smith as Miss Honey
Nicole Killian as Mrs. Wormwood
E Robb as Mr. Wormwood
Daniel Holmes as Doctor/Sergei
Anita Joblin as Ms. Phelps
Luke Hunter as Michael Wormwood
Lauryl Green as Bruce Bogtrotter
Alexa Gardner as Lavender
Delilah Leos as Acrobat/Regina
Maci Pate as Amanda Thripp
Chandler Hinojoza as Escapologist/Henchman
Kyleigh Underhill as Eric
Veda Edinbyrd as Tommy
Reagan Greenwood as Nigel
Madeleine Pham as Hortensia
Josh Rodriguez as Rudolpho/Children's Entertainer
Atlee Millard as Genevive the head big kid
Ashton Ward as Heather
Kylie Killian as Ivie
Kinley Boyle as Samantha
Bonnie Cox as Bonnie
Miley Dowell as Amelia
The show is sponsored by Cedar Creek Spray Foam and Adams Air Conditioning.