Youth theatre prepares for debut show

A new theatre company for young people in Beccles will take to the stage next week for its debut production.

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre officially launched its own in-house theatre company for youngsters in the summer and twenty eight young people will tread the boards next week as they prepare for their opening night of Matilda the Musical Jr.

Based on the beloved book “Matilda” by Roald Dahl and adapted from the award-winning full-length musical, Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical Jr. tells the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.

Ryan Holt, Programming & Marketing Manager for the venue said “The young people have been working really hard over the last few weeks and its inspiring to see what they have achieved. One of my favorite moments early on in the show is when Matilda sings, ‘Even if you are little you can do a lot’. It’s such a powerful reminder for each of us, tall and small, to take ownership in how we can create our reality”.

He added “Through the process of putting on this musical, these young people are doing just that: they are joining together and working hard to create this extraordinary event for their community and showcasing their talent”.

The youth theatre is led and directed by Thom Bailey, Musical Director Rachel King and Choreographer Krissy Clarke, all of whom work professionally within the industry.

The title role of Matilda will be played by Jasmine Briggs, who said she was excited to be playing the role.

Thom Bailey, Director said “It is nothing short of amazing how in just under 8 weeks our youngsters have worked with our Creative Team at Beccles Public Hall and Theatre to create a slick, enjoyable and entertaining production of Matilda! The Cast have amazed me at their dedication and hard work. They have developed confidence and skills beyond what I could have dreamed of. Which just proves that even if you are little you can achieve a lot!”.

Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical JR. is adapted from the full-length musical which was based on the book by Roald Dahl, and features a book by Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. The show opened on the West End in 2011 and made its Broadway premiere in 2013. The musical earned seven Olivier Awards, including “Best New Musical,” and five Tony awards, including The Tony for “Best Book of a Musical.”

Matilda, a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers, lives with cruel parents who find her to be a nuisance, a lousy little worm, and a bore. When Matilda enters her first term at school, she captures the attention of Miss Honey, a kind teacher, and the two form a wonderful friendship. Unfortunately, the school is ruled by a tempestuous and mean headmistress named Miss Trunchbull, who hates children and delivers cruel and unjust punishments to all her charges. Matilda is determined to change her story, but will her cleverness and courage be enough to withstand the reign of Miss Trunchbull?

Matilda the Musical Jr, runs from 29th – 31st October 2021 at Beccles Public Hall & Theatre. Tickets are still available from the box office 01502 770060 or online at www.becclespublichall.com

Pictures Credit: Ryan Holt

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