By Maureen Sullivan
Matilda is one of my favourite shows, and this production did not disappoint with hard work enabling successful delivery of the powerful songs.
The Wormwoods were a horrific delight. Madison, as Mr Wormwood, oozed sleaze; Macey portrayed Mrs Wormwood’s garishness beautifully, and Ruby, as Rudolpho, displayed comic timing and dance moves. Cadey made the role of Michael her own, delivering lines with natural comic flair.
Mary was a perfect Matilda: her lovely voice really came into its own in ‘Naughty’ and she was engaging without being precocious – a feat for a young actor.
Ember was terrifyingly brilliant as Miss Trunchbull, striding around throwing children across the room and threatening to send them to Chokey. I could see why they were scared.
Charlotte, as Miss Honey, evoked kindness with underlying passiveness, and displayed a beautiful soprano voice. Another great singer and dancer was Isobel, as Bruce. Lavendar (Scarlett), Amanda (Lillie-Jayne) and Nigel (Lilly) were well-cast in small but important roles.Other characters supported well – Grey as the sympathetic librarian; Amy and Daisy as acrobat and escapologist; Harriet as young Miss Honey; the Russians and a special mention for the Cook (Rosie), delivering Bruce’s cake with a wonderfully unhygienic comic turn!
I would love to credit every one of the cast, the ensemble really made the show, and of course the backstage crew: the setting changed frequently, but the action was fast paced and seamless. I understand the students did most of this, so well done.
The final person to applaud is Mrs Creggwood: it is not easy to enthuse and direct so many students to bring out their very best. It was great to see a packed hall; the hard work, talent and enthusiasm of everyone involved fully deserved their rousing applause.
Matilda was a triumph!
Isle of Wight Observer 
Isle of Wight Observer