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Marple Newtown High School Presents Matilda the Musical Written by Holly Stupak Photos by James Mergliano
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ull of catchy songs, high-energy dance numbers and special effects, Marple Newtown High School’s production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical opens March 10th and is sure to please both children and adults alike. Storytelling and music are woven together in this story about a young girl with a sharp mind and a vivid imagination. Based on the 1988 children's novel of the same name by Roald Dahl, Matilda the Musical debuted on Broadway in 2013 and won a Tony award that year. It’s been described by critics as "wise, wicked, glorious fun.” Directed by veteran director Brian Walsh and produced by Marple Newtown graduate Tiffany Caprice, MNHS’s production of Matilda the Musical features more than 100 of Marple Newtown School District’s students of all ages as actors, dancers, stage crew members and musicians. The story follows Matilda, a child who is unloved by her cruel parents and tormented by her school’s headmistress. Finding her escape in books and a bit of mischief, she takes a stand to change her destiny. Musical numbers like “Naughty” and “Revolting Children” help convey the show's message that anyone has the power to change their own story. The promotional poster for MNHS’s production of Matilda the Musical
Senior Lucy DeFrancesco plays the title role of the clever and courageous Matilda. “What I loved about the role of Matilda is that I could really relate to her,” said Lucy. “I’ve always felt a little eccentric, and at times like I didn't fit in. It’s fun to play a character where you can see yourself in them.” The show has plenty of other colorful characters, including Matilda’s parents, the greedy Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood, and Miss Honey, a gentle young school teacher who is impressed by Matilda’s precociousness and academic ability. The most detestable character is Miss Trunchbull, who instills fear and loathing in her students. Senior Peter Pilko plays the role of Miss Trunchbull, a principal who hates children and enjoys thinking up new punishments for those who don't abide by her rules. “I like the show's message of standing up for yourself,” said Peter, who is making his acting debut. “But I enjoy playing such a diabolical character. It’s fun being the villain!”
Actors Arianna Berryman and Peter Pilko exchange laughs in between takes
Working behind the scenes and at the heart of any successful theater production, is the stage crew. Matilda’s crew of 30 MNHS students are responsible for everything from lighting, sound and props to set design. Senior and President of the Drama Club Tim Fitzpatrick is the Head Designer and Director of Lighting. “Before joining the stage crew my sophomore year I didn’t notice all the little details that go into making a stage production run smoothly,” Tim explained. “After being part of the stage crew I now know how vital it is to the success of the show.” Tim oversees all of the various production crews, which includes a Special Effects committee to create some of the Matilda magic. “I love helping run the shows,” Tim added. “And on opening night it is so rewarding to see the whole production come together.”
30 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together
