Matilda at The Strand Theater

Howell, NJHowell PAL Theater Companys sensational, summer musical is all about kids of all ages and sizes becoming extraordinary superheroes who learn they can write their own story, and be empowered to change the world around them. Matilda, the Broadway Musical is a joyous, uplifting story of a courageous girl who, armed with a vivid imagination dares to take a stand to change her own destiny. Inspired by the twisted genius of author Roald Dahl, with book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda has won 47 international awards and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages around the world. Matilda, (played by 6th grader, Kylie Ferland) is a brilliant bookworm who escapes the horrors of her cruel and zany parents Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood, (played by sophomores, Cooper Stahl and Kayla Brown). With the kind support and reassurance of the schools librarian, Mrs. Phelps (played by senior, Giada Garcia), Matilda finds comfort in the imaginary world of books. Matilda impresses her schoolteacher, the highly lovable Miss Honey (played by sophomore, Adysson Fazio) and over the course of her first term at school, Matilda and Miss Honey have a profound effect on each other's lives. Yet, all good superhero stories need a despicable villain. The young students of Crunchem Hall must deal with the child-hating headmistress Miss Trunchbull, (played by college freshman, Brian Beehler in Friday nights performance) and (college freshman, Aidan Panno in Saturdays performance) who loves thinking up new punishments for those who don't abide by her rules. In true Roald Dahl fashion, the circumstances go from bad to worse. Matilda starts a revolution with the help of her superhero classmates: Bruce (played by 7th grader, Brennan Boyce), Lavender (played by 4th grader, Chloe Nowosacki), Tommy (played by 7th grader, Anthony Lisi), Nigel (played by 5th grader, Miles Imregi), Amanda (played by 4th grader, Madison Butler), Alice (played by 6th grader, Alexa Lege), Eric (played by 9th grader, Michael Manekas) and Hortensia (played by 7th grader, Kaitlyn Waterman) and an ensemble of big kids, little kids and parents who all learn to stand up for themselves through unforgettable high-energy dance numbers and memorable songs. Howell Police Athletic League Theaters Artistic Director Gillian Bryck is proud to present a full-scale Broadway musical for our Jersey shore communities to enjoy. Our cast of 52 young actors, ages 7-18 have been working long summer hours, four-times a week learning difficult songs and choreography. This will be a treat for audiences to see. Matilda is presented by special arrangement from MTI (Music Theater International) on September 9th at 7:30 pm and September 10th at 2:00 pm at the Historic Strand Theater. Tickets are on sale: https://hpaltc.booktix.com/