‘Matilda’ Debuts As The Return Production At Grace Arts Live

By Nicole Matheson

The stage lights are back on as Grace Arts Live, Main Street Performing Arts Theatre, opens its fall season with “Matilda”, beginning tonight at 7:30 p.m. The theater ended its spring season early becasue of COVID-19, so this production of “Matilda” is highly anticipated. RiverScene spoke with director Lauren Blain about the show.

About The Show

“Matilda” is based on Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book of the same name. Blain summarizes that, “‘Matilda’ follows Matilda Wormwood, a bright little girl who immerses herself in books. Matilda is discarded and belittled by her dimwitted parents and her hostile headmistress, the outrageous and wicked Miss Trunchbull. Reclusive, but with an ever-growing imagination and sharp mind, Matilda dreams of a better life, daring to take a stand against unjust forces and to grasp her destiny in her own, tiny hands.”

Caylin Kendrick plays Matilda in the Grace Arts Live production of “Matilda.” Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

And what can audiences expect? Blain said, “It’s a newer Broadway show that uses lots of fancy technology so we really had to get creative to make all he magical parts of the show play in our small, intimate space.” She reports that it takes about 20 people backstage working from costumes, lights, props and sound, as well as 25 local performers. The youngest actor is Matilda herself at age 8, played by Caylin Kendrick.

A Rising Star

“I’m really excited but also a little nervous!” Kendrick said about opening night. “About 40 percent nervous, because this is my first actual show and my first ever lead.” She credits vocal warm ups for curing her nervousness, as well as, “I tell myself I will be amazing and great and my mom and dad motivate me. My whole family is so excited to see the show.” Kendrick also notes that she is a lot like Matilda, reading at an advanced level in the third grade.

Between the set, lights, music and performers, “Matilda” promises to be a spectacular show. “Even if you’re little or feel little, you can do a lot,” Blain emphasizes is the message of the production. “And stick up to the big fat bullies of the world.”

For ticket information and showtimes, visit our event calendar or graceartslive.com