Matilda The Musical, UK Tour (2025) Review
The 2025/26 UK tour of Matilda The Musical. Photo by Manuel Harlan
Written by Emmie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Fifteen years ago, Matilda the Musical burst onto the stage in Stratford-upon-Avon, enchanting audiences with its unique wit, wonder, and rebellious spirit. What began as a bold new adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved story by Tim Minchin and Dennis Kelly has grown into a global phenomenon, captivating audiences of all ages in the West End, Broadway, and beyond. To celebrate the show’s 15th anniversary, it embarks on a new UK and Ireland tour. Kicking off its run in Leicester, does this musical have the same magic to inspire new audiences?
The story follows Matilda, a girl who is blessed with extraordinary talents and who is empowered to stand up for what’s right. Unfortunately, she's stuck with a set of parents whose priorities are as disconnected from their daughter as possible. Mrs Wormwood (Rebecca Thornhill) is desperate for more time with her extravagant Latin dance partner, Rudolpho (Ryan Lay), and spends less time engaging with her daughter and real life. Mr Womwood (Adam Stafford), on the other hand, is busy conning innocent motorists into buying rigged cars from him. Both of the parents are puzzled how they were able to produce a daughter with a natural flair for knowledge.
What is so incredibly clever about this production is Dennis Kelly’s writing, supported by Tim Minchin’s music. The recognisable tone and humour of Dahl’s book are not only preserved but expanded - enabling people to connect with it almost instantly. It’s faithful to the book but also is able to establish itself as its own product. Rob Howell’s set design is a treasure trove of delights that bursts to life with colour and playful wonder, with “When I Grow Up” being particularly memorable with swings flying towards the front rows. Paul Kieve’s illusions are a fantastic nod to theatrical magic!
The cast of this new UK and Ireland tour is fizzing with exciting talent. Richard Hurst’s turn as Miss Trunchbull is a theatrical triumph! Having seen him in the Dear Evan Hansen UK tour recently, Hurst showcases an unforgettable physicality and presence as the iconic villain. He really leaned into the more comic side of Miss Trunchball, resulting in one of my favourite interpretations.
Tessa Kadler’s warmth to Miss Honey shines through from the get go. There is a notable balance between the vulnerability and the fight that bubbles beneath the surface of her character. We see Kadler shine in her rendition of ‘My House’.
Our Matilda, Sanna Kurihara, gave one of the best performances of the night. Kurihara has a great understanding of her character’s quieter side, with just the right spark of being “a little bit naughty” thrown in there, too. Her performance is well-received by the audience throughout, who leaped to their feet when she took her bow at the end. She sings and articulates her script like she’s an older professional - I’m sure we will see so much of her on stage in the future! Dottie Jones, who plays Matilda’s confident best friend, Lavender, injects the show with so much energy and mischief that you love her instantly! Her personality is immense, and her presence, along with the rest of the young ensemble, are an utter joy to behold.
Jam-packed with a catchy musical score, clever humour, and larger-than-life characters, Matilda The Musical remains one of the best musicals for audiences of all ages.
Matilda The Musical continues its run at Curve Theatre, Leicester until 25 October before continuing on its UK and Ireland tour until January 2027.
★★★★★
