Watching Matilda at Curve is like stepping into a world that pulses with energy — darkly comic, deeply moving, and defiantly joyful.
This new UK tour, which launches at Curve and runs until October 25, captures the spirit of Roald Dahl while injecting a renewed spark into the storytelling and design.
Picture credit: Curve
From the very first scene, the production sets a high standard. The set is delightfully alive — filled with giant letter blocks, revolving bookcases, and imaginative lighting that makes the entire world feel like it’s in motion, tilting between fantasy and reality. It’s a visual feast that feels like a storybook leaping off the page.
The children’s ensemble is nothing short of impressive. Their timing, agility, and sheer energy bring each number to life — particularly When I Grow Up, where the iconic swings soaring over the audience evoke a sense of pure, childhood wonder.
But what truly elevates this production are its performances — especially Sanna Kurihara as Matilda. From her first quiet moments to her powerful solo numbers, Kurihara delivers a performance that is remarkably poised and emotionally layered. She brings intelligence, vulnerability, and a spark of mischief to the role, never playing Matilda as a victim but as a quietly determined force. In songs like Quiet and Naughty, she demonstrates both vocal strength and emotional nuance, anchoring the show with heart and clarity.
Richard Hurst’s Miss Trunchbull is a grotesque joy — terrifying yet oddly hilarious. With exaggerated physicality and razor-sharp timing, Hurst brings out the dark humour at the core of the character, walking the perfect line between menace and absurdity.
The supporting cast — from the garish Wormwoods to the gentle Miss Honey — all hit their marks with charm and precision. The production doesn’t shy away from the darker undercurrents of Dahl’s world: injustice, cruelty, and rebellion remain central. But it’s all filtered through a lens of imagination and resilience, reminding us of the strength found in stories, dreams, and small acts of courage.
Expecting just a children’s show? Think again. Matilda at Curve is theatre at its most alive — a bold, imaginative experience that leaves you both stirred and uplifted.
Catch Matilda the Musical at Curve until October 25.
https://www.curveonline.co.uk/whats-on/shows/matilda-the-musical-2/
