Matilda the Musical dance recital theme

Matilda the Musical

Broadway musical

An inspiring musical about a clever girl who uses books and mind power to overcome her difficulties.

Best Time
Year-round
Dance Styles
Jazz, Contemporary
Songs
6 tracks
Category
broadway

About This Theme

Matilda the Musical celebrates the power of imagination and standing up against injustice. Based on Roald Dahl's beloved book, it features some of the most energetic ensemble numbers in modern musical theatre. Revolting Children is an absolute showstopper - a rebellious anthem that lets your young dancers channel their inner rebels while swinging on swings and defying the terrifying Miss Trunchbull.

Why This Theme Works

When I Grow Up captures that universal childhood feeling of imagining your future. The imagery of swings and playtime creates beautiful staging opportunities. Revolting Children lets your students be gleefully naughty in a safe, theatrical way. The energy is infectious, and audiences love seeing children take charge.

Age Groups & Casting

Ages 3-5
Youngest schoolchildren in ensemble
Ages 6-9
School ensemble, Matilda's classmates
Ages 10-13
Matilda, Lavender, Bruce, featured students
Ages 14-17
Matilda, Miss Honey, older students
Ages Adult
Miss Trunchbull, Mr and Mrs Wormwood

Key Roles & Characters

Matilda
Lead role - small but mighty, intelligent, determined
Miss Trunchbull
Villain - often played by male dancer, physical comedy
Miss Honey
Kind teacher - gentle, graceful, emotional journey
Mr and Mrs Wormwood
Awful parents - exaggerated, comedic
Bruce
Cake-eating hero - physical comedy, crowd favourite

Song Suggestions

1
Miracle
Matilda Cast | 3:00
2
Naughty
Matilda Cast | 3:15
3
School Song
Matilda Cast | 2:45
4
When I Grow Up
Matilda Cast | 3:30
5
Quiet
Matilda Cast | 2:50
6
Revolting Children
Matilda Cast | 4:00
6 songs Total: 19:20

Costume Ideas

School uniforms are the base - grey skirts/trousers, white shirts, ties. Matilda stands out with her blue ribbon. Miss Trunchbull is intimidating in gym teacher attire - perhaps Olympic-style costume with medals.

Miss Honey is soft and feminine - florals, gentle colours. The Wormwoods are tacky and flashy. Bruce needs room to move for the chocolate cake scene.

Staging & Set Ideas

The school needs to feel institutional but with Dahl's whimsy. Chalkboards, desks, and the infamous Chokey (can be a simple box or cage effect).

Matilda's home contrasts with garish colours and a prominent television. The library is warm and inviting. Swings are ideal for When I Grow Up if your venue allows - even simple rope swings create the effect.

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