Review | Matilda | Manchester Palace Theatre | 26 March 2026
- 10 hours ago
- 2 min read
Whilst not every book or film needs a stage adaptation, Matilda is a glorious exception. Based on Roald Dahl’s tale of a gifted yet underappreciated young girl with an unshakeable sense of justice, it embraces the idea that sometimes “you have to be a little bit naughty.”
Since debuting with at the RSC in 2010, Matilda the Musical has taken the world by storm. With seven Olivier Awards and four Tony Awards to its name, it feels less like a generic adaptation but more like a modern classic in its own right.
Mollie Hutton leads the cast with confidence and assurance in the title role, striking the right balance between defiance and warmth. Hutton is sure to inspire younger theatregoers to believe in themselves that little bit more. The entire ensemble of children injects the production with infectious energy and mischief throughout.
Adam Stafford and Rebecca Thornhill pitch Matilda's parents with an almost pantomime villain edge that works perfectly on stage in amplifying Dahl’s larger-than-life characters, in a way that could never be achieved the same way on film. Richard Hurst makes for a hilarious Miss Trunchbull, the cruel headmistress of Crunchem Hall. Hurst blends menace with just the right touch of camp, ensuring audiences love to hate her, whilst not being terrifying for younger theatre goers. In contrast, Rebecca Thornhill’s Miss Honey is the absolute heart of this production, providing a safe space for Matilda. Her rendition of ‘My House’ is genuinely spine-tingling, a real stand out moment.
What truly sets Matilda apart is Tim Minchin’s genius music and lyrics. Fast paced and witty, the music has a unique quality, unlike any musical you will have seen before. From anthemic ‘Revolting Children’ to the hopeful and inspiring ‘When I Grow Up’ the music is varied, despite having an undeniable signature sound throughout. ‘School Song’ is a particular highlight, cleverly spelling out the alphabet through the lyrics, whilst the children of Crunchem Hall clamber and play amongst the letters themselves.
Peter Darling’s award-winning choreography is the perfect accompaniment for Minchin’s music. The large ensemble numbers are where it truly comes into its own, with the young cast quite rightly stealing the show. When the cast use four swings as part of the choreography in the most ingenious way, it is impossible not to smile from ear to ear. Alongside the inventive staging, there really isn’t a single element of Matilda that doesn’t deliver. It really is the perfect family musical, setting the gold standard for other shows to aspire to.
Matilda plays at Manchester Palace Theatre until Saturday 25 April 2026.
Note: My ticket was gifted in exchange for a review. This review is based on my honest opinion alone and is without influence.
