Review: A Progress Report for MATILDA at Winspear Opera House

In a way, theatre is a bit like pizza: a good slice is heavenly; but often, even a bad pizza is better than no pizza at all. On the other hand, sometimes the best pizza can turn into mediocre leftovers when you microwave it after it's sat around. On stage, sometimes the same can be a true...even the best Broadway shows don't always "reheat" well on the road.

The number one problem with the current tour of MATILDA isn't the recipe (the script and score) or even the ingredients (the cast). The take-out container of the touring production nearly ruins the entire flavor of the show. Specifically, some sound designer has decided to keep the volume so low that the audience can hardly hear the actors (who may or may not have uneven accents and less-than-perfect diction). Like a pizza with no flavor, a show that you can't hear is almost intolerable. Almost.

But let's be honest: the story of MATILDA is still heartwarming. The tale about a young, neglected girl who befriends her school teacher, takes a stand against a bully, and uses some "special powers" to save the day, MATILDA might sound a bit like a Stephen King flick, yet the show is both adorable and exciting, and is somehow the perfect balance between family-friendly and grown-up goodness. And, honestly, there's nothing cuter than a group of prepubescent kids singing brighter and dancing sharper than Britney Spears circa 1999. When the full cast is onstage, dancing Peter Darling's dangerously exciting choreography, and singing Tim Minchin's clever, mile-a-minute lyrics, the show pulls you to the edge of your seat (where you might stay if you want to hear a single word sung or spoken throughout the rest of the show). Songs like "Revolting Children," "School Song," and "When I Grow Up" are certain to become unforgettable theatrical classics.

The young actress who played Matilda last night (there are three who rotate the role, but I'll exclude her name to keep this off her "permanent record"), proved to be a solid singer and dancer. However, with the difficulty of understanding any word that came out of her mouth (in her British/Irish/Scottish/American accent), it was a slight test of endurance to keep up with her major storytelling throughout the show. I don't blame the young actress for this issue, as the show has enough directors, sound designers, and dialect coaches on staff to provide better training (or at least better amplification - in case I haven't mentioned that). I'll make no joke about the irony of Matilda delivering a song called "Quiet."

As Matilda's sweet teacher, Miss Honey, Jennifer Blood has a warm, sweet presence and a delicious voice. Ms. Blood joins the tour after recently appearing on Broadway in A GENTLEMEN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER and VIOLET. Her honest approach to Miss Honey allows you to momentarily forget you're in a theatre, and makes you immediately invested in her mission to protect her students. When she finds courage toward the end of the show, you can feel the entire audience standing behind her in support.

As the hilariously evil enemy of the children (or maggots, as they are lovingly called), Bryce Ryness is downright delicious as Miss Trunchbull. It's (intentionally) hard to tell if you're supposed to know Trunchbull is a man in a dress (like Edna Turnblad in HAIRSPRAY, except more ominous), and Ryness makes no effort to feminize this ox of a character. Somehow, even under the unflattering costume and makeup, Ryness delivers impressively stellar vocals and surprisingly graceful moves.

But, as Matilda's eccentric mother, Mrs. Wormwood, it's Cassie Silva who steals the show. With her high belting and even higher kicks, Ms. Silva's flair for comedy paints the stage as colorfully as her bright blue eye shadow. The young actress was a favorite on MTV's LEGALLY BLONDE: THE SEARCH FOR ELLE WOODS, and was featured as Brenda in the 2007 HAIRSPRAY movie. She's absolutely a name to watch for in the future.

MATILDA performances continue at Winspear Opera House through October 4th. Should the production overcome their technical issues, the show is a must see. Until then, it's still a charming story with incredible music - but you may need to ask for a hearing device!

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