Not Bad Kids but Seen as Bad (Derby Dinner Playhouse)

Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical

Book by Dennis Kelly

Music and Lyrics by Tim Minchin

Directed by Sally Scott

Review by Kate Barry

Entire contents are copyright @2025 by Kate Barry. All rights reserved.

A little girl stands up for what’s right and develops a brilliant mind in Matilda the Musical. Based on Roald Dahl’s classic novel of the same name, the musical tells the story of bookish child in an unloving home, cruel school and what she does to survive. Having made its Broadway debut in 2013, the musical is currently showing at Derby Dinner Playhouse. And it is perfect for children of all ages.

Matilda, along with seven other children in the cast, is doubled for the run. For the performance I attended, Louella Hettich played the title role. Strong in her convictions with plenty of pep, Hettich may be small but she is a mighty lead. Whether she is constantly being berated by her selfish parents, played with expert comedic skills by Dickie Baker and Brittany Carricato Cox or the plain awful Miss Agatha Trunchbull, a wonderfully vile turn by Bobby Conte, Hettich holds command of the stage against some pretty heavy hitters. Hettich shows mature range for such a young actress with the humorous “Naughty” and beautifully displays sadness and longing for a loving family in “I’m here” and “Quiet.”

As for the Wormwoods, each carries their comedic weight while avoiding intimidation or a cause of fear. As Matilda’s parents, Dickie Baker and Brittany Carricato Cox are a riot as they show no self-awareness, sing and tap dance with television sets and dream of lives as ballroom champions. Andy Wallace brings a wry, deadpan delivery with their one-liners while staring blankly into a television set as well.

 And then there is Miss Agatha Trunchbull. Bobby Conte slays as the main villain of the school whose motto translates to “children are maggots.” Conte accentuates Trunchbull want for children to be disciplined with great athleticism and threats of a dreaded “chokey.” Conte’s physicality is larger than life, the facial expressions are hideously delightful and deserves all jeers and applause.

Even though Matilda faces much cruelty at home and at school, she finds camaraderie with her schoolmates, an eccentric librarian played by Elizabeth Loos, and a loving teacher, Miss Honey, played by Eliza Hallal. Loos’ Mrs. Phelps brings an ecstatic enthusiasm for Matilda’s strengths that is relatable and genuine in nature. Paul McElroy and Kaitlyn Sage provide lovely circus like movements during sequences involving Matilda’s longing for a loving home that bring a nice touch to the production.

 Eliza Hallal’s performance as Miss Honey is tender and sweet. Hallal’s performance is a teacher we all wish we could have, one who believes in their student, loves them and cheers for their successes. As Miss Honey strives to see Matilda grow in her abilities, Hallal brings equal compassion to Miss Honey’s attempts to stand up for herself and face her own insecurities. She provides a lovely vocal to “This Little Girl” and “My House.”

 Matilda’s school mates provide three major showstoppers. “Miracle” is a happy go-lucky tune that cleverly depicts how loved other children are compared to Matilda, complete with over the top choreography and costumes. First act ends with “Bruce,” a highly energetic number focused on a child forced to eat a full chocolate cake. The cast of children and “big kids” keep a frenetic pace both in song and dance. And “Revolting Children” earns its spot as an anthem for children in the cast to celebrate their victories. With staging that is reminiscent of a pop concert, the young cast delivered extraordinary moves and singing abilities.

Matilda author, Roald Dahl, is a master story teller. With books about giant peaches and chocolate factories, Matilda sits among them as one of the greats. And as Matilda grows smarter and learns to stand up for what is right, this musical reminds us all that kids can do anything.

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Derby Dinner Playhouse July 2-August 10 2025 525 Marriott Drive Clarksville, IN 47129 www.derbydinner.com