Ovation Theatre brings ‘Matilda’ to the stage in North County

Ovation Theatre presents the musical “Matilda” Jan 31-Feb 2 and Feb 7-9 at at the David H Thompson Performing Arts Center, La Costa Canyon High School, Carlsbad.

In a world where all the little children are praised for being a miracle and one of a kind, Matilda’s hilariously silly parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood, think she’s less than wonderful. However, Matilda is truly special, possessing powers of divining storytelling and psychokinetic powers. While she’s unloved by her shallow parents, she makes an instant connection with her schoolteacher, the sweet but timid Miss Honey. As Matilda’s relationship with Miss Honey grows, they begin to save each other from the abusive people in their lives. Miss Honey, as well as the rest of Matilda’s school, is terrorized by the comically cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. However, Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, making her more than a match for the infamous headmistress.

Packed with high-energy dance numbers, catchy songs, and an unforgettable leading lady, Matilda is a joyous, girl-power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of this special little girl with an extraordinary imagination. Get a sneak-peek into the production and rehearsals on Instagram @ovationtheatreshows and Facebook @ovationtheatre!

Artistic director, Pamela Laurent, and musical director, Scott Gregory—the driving forces behind Ovation’s mounting list of award-winning productions—will be at the helm. Susie Dycus (choreographer for OT’s Footloose, Freaky Friday, Crazy for You, Beauty And The Beast, and others) will bring to life the raucous and, at other times, heartfelt music with her choreography.

The cast features past as well as new Ovation performers.

The role of Matilda is portrayed by Annika Porter (Carlsbad). Her nemesis, Amanda Trunchbull, is played by Jack Gemmell (Oceanside). Audrey Deubig (Escondido) is featured as the lovable Miss Honey. Matilda’s negligent parents are played by Annabelle Chambers (Carlsbad) as Mrs. Wormwood, and Garrett Lee (Carlsbad), as Mr. Wormwood.

Rounding out the cast are Jakeson Howze (Carlsbad) as Bruce, Ruby Belt (Carlsbad) playing Lavender, Sutton Dycus (San Marcos) as Mrs. Phelps, and Lucas Grana (San Marcos) and Emily DaFoe (Ramona) as the mysterious Escapologist and Acrobat.

First-weekend performances are Friday, Jan. 31 at 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday Feb. 1 and 2 at 2 p.m. Second-weekend performances are Friday, Feb. 7 at 7 p.m., Saturdayand Sunday Feb. 8 and 9 at 2 p.m. Performances are at the David H Thompson Performing Arts Center, La Costa Canyon High School, Carlsbad, and are suitable for all ages.

Ticket prices are $22 for all ages online, and $25 at the door.

Tickets are available at ovationtheatre.brownpapertickets.com. Group rates are also available. Check out www.ovationtheatre.org, call (760) 487-8568, email info@ovationtheatre.org for more information.