From Director Jeff Frank: Roald Dahl's MATILDA The Musical

“I can’t is not in my vocabulary!”
“I take risks!”
“I conquer my fears!”
“I am not afraid to lead!”

As we work with young people, we hope that this First Stage Theater Academy cheer inspires each of them to take their next steps forward as artists and as people. But those are also words the entire First Stage team strives to embody each day.

Prior to MATILDA, First Stage had never produced a play or musical longer than two hours due to the constraints of our Theater for Young Audiences contract, but when we became aware that the rights to the full-length MATILDA were available, we knew we wanted to be the company to bring this amazing story to life for families in south eastern Wisconsin. Yes – it would push us outside our comfort zone. Yes – it would be a risk. Yes – it was something new. But the reward has been so worth it – and we are so excited to share the results with you!


Dark vs. Light


As with all of the work of Dahl – darkness is present – in the injustice of childhood and the disappointments of growing up. For Matilda – books, words, language, equations provide the light – a path out of the darkness to which she has been subjugated. First her parents, then Trunchbull have removed/worn down the color/brightness of the world’s potential. Trunch in particular has created a prison based in part on outdated tools and systems. Eventually, Matilda realizes that she must find a way to stand up against the adults and the injustice in the world  – “Nobody but me is gonna change my story.” Her bravery and strength show her classmates and her teacher that even though life can be hard – you can be the change you need in your life.

Yet, she also realizes in order to enact change – sometimes you have to be a little bit naughty, but where is that line? Some definite thought provoking stuff for your ride home!