Matilda | Cambridge Theatre

Matilda is a delightful antidote to these ‘revolting times’ as of late. All of the elements of this show come together in a spectacular blend of magic and whimsy - and it makes you feel that even the most jaded adult could find some joy in this show.

The show follows a young girl named Matilda - who is a lover of books and stories, and yet is surrounded by parents who value the more vain things in life. Dad is a crooked car salesman, and mum is a wannabe salsa dancer with permed hair that’s so high, you’d think she’d tip over from the weight of it.

But Matilda finds herself at home amongst the local librarian and eventually with her teacher Ms. Honey - at what is a rather frightening school run by the evil Headmistress Miss Trunchbull. We see Matilda impress everyone with her intellect and magical powers, helping Ms. Honey find her courage and inspiring the children of the school to rebel against the evil headmistress.

The cast is a wonderful mix of young children and fully grown adults - but you can’t help thinking that in this show, everyone gets to just be a kid. From the amazing acting of Alexis Whitehead, playing the sweet and steadfast Matilda, to Jon Robyns playing Miss Trunchbull. The acting is over the top, outrageous, and positively delightful all around.

Robyns is a stand out performer - playing the villain so steadfastly that the character was hard not to love in the end, and Whitehead is positively adorable. She was on the more serious side of performance. However, she was excellent in both her singing and acting, really showing us Matilda’s determination - the likes of which are unmatched even by the strongest adults at times.

The set as well is a feast for the eyes. Everywhere you look, in every place we’re transported, there is something to see. The details of the set make it great, but the interaction with the set is particularly something unique here. From climbing blocks to fully sized swings - every detail has us transported to a time when we were young and innocent.

The music, of course, is a big hit as well. There’s a reason this musical has been running for 14 years and has engaged the hearts and minds of everyone -  from the smallest child to the oldest pensioner. The music is woven throughout, and Tim Minchin’s lyricism is never in doubt. It is clever and extremely catchy at times, that you want to stomp your feet and clap your hands even before the curtain closes.

If you’re looking for an escape, or a way to connect with your inner child during these dark times, Matilda is the right show for you. It has all the elements of a truly fantastic musical. And maybe, just maybe, by the end you’ll be thinking about your own superpowers - and how you can be even just a little bit ‘naughty’.

Matilda is currently booking up until 24th May 2026.

Tickets and More Information

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Manuel Harlan and Ellie Kurttz