As Living Arts week concluded this July, the campers and staff presented the musical “Matilda, Jr.” The musical tells the story of Matilda, a brilliant and caring young woman. Unfortunately, she experiences bullying and ridicule at home from her parents and further bullying and ridicule from her school headmaster, Trunchbull.
Matilda chooses to confront the injustices in her life. In one of the opening songs of the musical, “Naughty”, Matilda reminds everyone that even the smallest child can take a stand against injustice. Abigail Mitchell, playing the role of Matilda, sang a wonderful version of Naughty, including these words:
“Just because you find that life’s not fair,
it doesn’t mean you have to grin and bear it,
If you always take it on the chin and wear it,
Nothing will change.
Even if you’re little, you can do a lot,
You mustn’t let a little thing like little stop ya”
Matilda reaches out to her loving and caring teacher, Miss Honey. Together, they reach out to Matilda’s classmates to build a supportive community in the classroom. Matilda’s classmates unite to confront the evil Trunchbull. Miss Honey also helps Matilda confront her parents about their destructive behavior.
Many thanks to the entire cast and ensemble of “Matilda, Jr.” for such an entertaining and spirited production. Brody Annis’ portrayal of the devious and villainous Mr. Wormwood and Myles Godfrey’s portrayal of the sinister and mean Trunchbull were exceptional. Abigail Mitchell was a wonderfully compassionate Matilda, and she expertly demonstrated her beautiful voice and vocal range.
Each year, the Living Arts musical provides campers and staff members tools for confronting injustice in their world. Matilda’s uplifting message reminded every person present that the inspired action of just one person can make a dramatic difference in the world.
“Even if you’re little, you can do a lot,
You mustn’t let a little thing like little stop ya.”
The actions of one child, one teen, one parent, or one grandparent can make a world of difference.
Thanks to the entire cast and crew of “Matilda, Jr.” from musical director Rikki Spelman to the ensemble of “Little Kids” to the Technical Theater and Stage Management team for helping us all feel empowered to right injustice in our world.
Rick Whitefleet-Smith
Aldersgate Board Member