Our students in the cast and crew, plus the directors, have spent weeks on this production, and it will all be over after the last performance tomorrow. But theatre brings together everyone–from those who make art to those who see it–for a season of preparation and then performances they will each remember for a lifetime.
“Matilda the Musical” is the story of strength, courage, friendship, humor, discovery, justice, a little telekinesis for good measure, and stories. Always stories. It also rides on a bright, memorable score that you’ll still be singing once you leave the MPR.
You may think you know the incredibly talented singers/actors you may have been watching for several years in Drama Club performances, but wait until you hear how they’ve grown. Their comedic timing sizzles, and they also carry mystery like spring flowers carry fragrance (or like chocolate cake carries…never mind; you’ll understand after the musical).
There’s more: please notice that some of the leads in this show are 6th graders. That’s not a typo. Sixth graders. They’ve done so, so well!
It’s important to remember that Otselic Valley is also blessed by so much talent you will never hear speak lines. The crew worked together with the directors to make the amazing set, and the backstage crew hustle that set and props throughout the entire performance to keep things moving. It’s a workout! It’s also sublime, thanks to the magic wrought by the light and sound crew. It’s also generous: older students are supporting young crew-members-in-training with patience and good humor.
Big thanks go out to all who made Matilda possible, including parents who waited patiently to pick up their students after long practices, administrators and custodians who made space and time for all this (and brought pizza), students who took lots of good chances, and to Mrs. Kalin, Ms. Smith, and Mr. Taylor for their great gifts of presence and support.
Finally, while watching this performance, please take in the heartfelt gift of meaning that comes with “Matilda the Musical” from the Otselic Valley Drama Club. You might walk out of the MPR thinking about new questions:
What did you imagine it would be like to grow up?
What is your story?
Do you want to change it?
Shine on, Otselic Valley.
[Two performances only: Friday, March 8th at 7 pm and Saturday, March 9th at 2 pm. Tickets are available at the door: $10 for adults and $5 for students. Your ticket purchases help pay for performance rights and costs of production--thank you! More photos are available on the district Facebook page.]