By: Sophia Burgos, Overbrook High School, Pine Hill
CLAYTON, N.J. — With the electrifying smell of rebellion in the air, Clayton High School‘s production of Matilda captured the various sides of the playground, both the nice and the naughty!
Matilda, adapted from the memorable 1988 novel by Roald Dahl, follows the life of Matilda Wormwood, an incredibly intelligent and imaginative girl from a not-so-loving family. Matilda dreams of attending school, but those dreams are quickly shattered by Miss Trunchbull, the wicked and intimidating principal of Crunchen Academy. With her psychokinetic powers and support from Miss Honey, a soft and kindhearted teacher, Matilda stands up against Miss Trunchbull, using her courage and wit to outsmart the cruel headmistress.
Clayton High School’s production was elevated by the persistent characterization, spirited voices, and the vigor children can bring to the stage. The combination of the middle school and high school students brought the story to life, filling the theater with dynamic vocals and energizing choreography, all paired with clear and unwavering British accents.
Briel Davis-McCoy truly encompassed Matilda’s youth and energy, as well as her artistry, with every vocal and movement. Davis-McCoy embodied Matilda’s creativity through her storytelling, reeling the audience in with clear diction and a cheery voice, all combined with the familiar British accent. Even in tender songs, such as “Quiet,” Davis-McCoy maintained a light and youthful voice.
Miss Honey, played by Greta Peters, and Miss Trunchbull, played by Alexis Amerman, were brilliant foils, conveyed with distinct vocals and characterization. Greta Peters embodied Miss Honey’s warm-hearted persona throughout the entirety of her performance, whether she was having affectionate interactions with Matilda, or expressing her longing for freedom in “My House” with her soft and tender voice. In contrast, Alexis Amerman conveyed Miss Trunchbull’s wickedness with bold character choices and vocals, especially made evident in her intimidating and powerful performance of “The Smell of Rebellion.” Rebellion was heard loud and clear by the Crunchem Academy student ensemble, who provided strong and energetic projection during “Revolting Children.”
The clever technical aspects of the show accentuated the terrifying atmosphere of Crunchem Academy, yet embraced the classic comedic moments at the same time. Miss Trunchbull’s classic hammer throw of Amanda Thripp was ingeniously recreated with a doll soaring across the stage, making the audience burst with laughter. The iconic chalkboard and chokey were well-crafted, adding tension into the scenes. In addition to the creativity found in the set pieces, the stage crew helped create seamless transitions with their swiftness.
Regardless of the distant ringing of the school bell as the curtains closed, the cast brought relentless passion. Clayton High School’s creative rendition of Matilda cleverly reminded the audience that “sometimes, you have to be a little bit naughty.”
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