[Review] Matilda The Musical Returns to Singapore: A Spectacle for All Ages

Matilda The Musical, based on the classic Roald Dahl novel, is making its triumphant return to the Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands, captivating audiences with its whimsical charm and inspiring tale of courage and imagination.

Last in Singapore in 2019, this multi-award-winning production, presented by Base Entertainment Asia and GWB Entertainment in association with the Royal Shakespeare Company, has been met with rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. With 101 international awards, including 24 for Best Musical, the musical promises a delightful experience for theatre enthusiasts of all ages.

Directed by Matthew Warchus and featuring original songs by Tim Minchin, the musical follows the journey of Matilda, a precocious young girl who defies the odds and stands up against the tyrannical Miss Trunchbull. Through Matilda’s journey, the audience is reminded of the power of resilience, intellect, and the boundless potential of imagination.

I caught the media preview last night and found it pretty enjoyable.

Having watched the Matilda the Musical (2022) movie recently on Netflix, the storyline is still fresh in my mind. It was a delight to see the film presented in real life, in the medium of the source material.

For fans of Roald Dahl novels, do note that there are some deviations from the original book version of Matilda, but the essence of the overall themes and narrative remains the same.

Our 2019 review billed Ms Trunchbull as the unexpected star in the musical. While she is still a very memorable character in this latest rendition, the star this time round goes to all the children in the 2024 cast. All of them seem to be having so much fun playing their respective roles that their exuberance is infectious, spreading the joy to the audience. This was particularly evident when they were singing and dancing to the catchy song, “When I Grow Up”, bringing me back to my childhood memories of carefree joy.

The mischievous nature of Roald Dahl’s storytelling is well represented in the musical, with the signature plot twists. This is a show that both the very young and the older folks who grew up reading Dahl’s books can all enjoy together.

With the March school holiday just around the corner, for parents, this will be a great show to bring your little ones to introduce them to the magical world of theatres and musicals.

Matilda The Musical is now showing in Singapore at Sands Theatres at Marina Bay Sands from 9 March to 7 April. Tickets and more details are available on the official website.