Expert Review: Why Matilda The Musical Is A Must-See

4.8
★★★★★

Expert Rating

The Verdict

Matilda The Musical is pure theatrical magic that captures everything wonderful about Roald Dahl's beloved story while expanding it into something even more extraordinary. This isn't just children's entertainment – it's a sophisticated, emotionally rich experience that speaks to the rebel in all of us, celebrating the power of imagination, books, and standing up for what's right.

What Makes It Special

  • Extraordinary Child Performers: The young cast delivers performances that rival seasoned professionals, bringing Matilda's intelligence and courage to vivid life.
  • "When I Grow Up": One of musical theatre's most moving numbers, featuring children on swings soaring above the audience in a moment of pure wonder.
  • Tim Minchin's Brilliant Score: Clever, witty, and emotionally powerful songs that perfectly capture Dahl's storytelling style.
  • Universal Themes: A story about the power of education, the importance of kindness, and finding your voice that resonates across all ages.

Perfect For

Families with children aged 6+, book lovers, teachers and parents, musical theatre enthusiasts, and anyone who believes in the power of standing up to bullies. The sophisticated humor and emotional depth make it equally engaging for adults and children.

Everything You Need to Know

An Extraordinary Girl's Journey

Matilda is a brilliant and brave girl with telekinetic powers who loves reading and learning. Stuck with horrible parents and a tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, Matilda discovers that sometimes you have to be a little bit naughty to put things right. With the help of her kind teacher Miss Honey, Matilda learns to stand up for herself and others.

What to Expect

  • Spectacular staging that brings Matilda's telekinetic powers to life
  • Unforgettable characters from Miss Trunchbull to the loveable Mrs Phelps
  • Roald Dahl's signature dark humor perfectly balanced with heart
  • Stunning choreography including the famous swing sequence
  • A celebration of books, learning, and the power of imagination

The Magic of Storytelling

At its heart, Matilda is about the transformative power of stories and education. The musical beautifully explores how books can transport us, how knowledge empowers us, and how even the smallest person can make the biggest difference when they stand up for what's right.

Tim Minchin's Brilliant Songs

  • "Miracle" - A wickedly funny opening about parents' delusions regarding their children
  • "Naughty" - Matilda's empowering anthem about sometimes needing to break the rules
  • "When I Grow Up" - The show-stopping number with children on swings dreaming of freedom
  • "The Hammer" - Miss Trunchbull's terrifying and hilarious introduction
  • "Quiet" - A beautiful, introspective song about finding peace in books and stories

Musical Genius

Tim Minchin's score is a masterclass in musical theatre writing, blending sophisticated wordplay with genuine emotion. The songs advance the plot, develop characters, and provide moments of pure theatrical magic that audiences remember long after leaving the theatre.

Musical Fact: "When I Grow Up" requires a complex rigging system with over 20 swings, making it one of the most technically challenging musical numbers in West End theatre.

Practical Information

Show Times

  • Monday - Thursday: 7:30pm
  • Wednesday & Saturday: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Sunday: 3:00pm

Getting to Cambridge Theatre

  • Tube: Covent Garden (4 minutes walk), Leicester Square (6 minutes)
  • Bus: Routes 14, 19, 38 stop nearby on Shaftesbury Avenue
  • Train: Charing Cross (10 minutes walk)
  • Parking: Q-Park Chinatown nearby

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible seating with advance notice
  • Audio described performances available
  • Hearing loops in designated areas
  • Touch tours before audio described performances

Family Information

  • Booster seats available for smaller children
  • Family-friendly facilities including baby changing
  • Children's merchandise available in the gift shop
  • Educational materials for schools and groups