Congratulations to everyone involved in the production of Matilda the Musical. After a 9-month rehearsal period (to accommodate changing health restrictions), the musical was performed live in the YHS Odette Tognetti Theatre from May 26-28. This show has been a huge undertaking in all areas, with 28 cast members, 14 pit band members, and 15 backstage crew coming together to present this larger-than-life production of “Matilda”, a story about a precocious 5-year-old girl who loves reading and overcomes obstacles caused by her family and school with strength and determination.
A vibrant energy was truly palpable for the sold-out finale! The audience’s attention, young and old, was captured from the very first opening scene and we were treated to comedic moments, complex choreography, beautiful set design and props and of course truly outstanding vocal and musical performances. After the last round of applause, students hugged each other with pride and a deep sense of accomplishment. It was beautiful to see.
A musical is truly a mammoth endeavour—thank you to all faculty, staff, students, parents and all volunteers involved in making this production such a huge success! Thank you to Stan Figaj, Facilities & Maintenance, for his amazing skill and assistance with set building, to Calvin Lee, Technology & AV Support Specialist for his technical expertise and to teachers Nathan Reimer and Jonathan Lee for their assistance in multiple areas. Special acknowledgements go to Mathew Chyzyk, Assistant Faculty Director, Dawn Haylett, Musical Director, and Keira Louis, Director, for their outstanding dedication and leadership. You have created memories that will last a lifetime!
As Matilda herself says, “even if you’re little you can do a lot”, and the York House Theatre students have certainly proven that this year. We hope you enjoyed watching it as much as we enjoyed producing it for you.