The Bushnell Center for Performing Arts Announces Inaugural Class of Youth Theater Program

Press release

Hartford – The Bushnell Center for Performing Arts is proud to announce the cast for its first-ever youth theater program, a newly launched initiative under their talent development division, The Bushnell Performing Arts Scholars (BPAS). BPAS will combine a dynamic series of masterclasses and immersive creative learning workshops designed to develop participants’ skills in performance, music, and stagecraft. This artistic journey will culminate in a fully staged live theatrical production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda Jr., The Musical, next Spring.

The response to the auditions call was overwhelming, bringing together more than 100 talented young performers from across Connecticut and Massachusetts. Ultimately 41 spirited and skilled students were selected to comprise the very first class of Performing Arts Scholars and charged with the task of bringing this magical tale to life. The exceptional depth of talent presented made the deliberation process joyfully challenging, leading The Bushnell’s Education Department to double-cast the production.

Our casting panel consisted of talented professors, professionals, and educators from performing arts institutions in the state including The Hartt School of Music, The Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts, and The University of Connecticut. We thank Benjamin Stayner, Kevin Ramsey, Kristin Huffman, and Stacie Beard for lending their experience and expertise to our panel.

Matilda Jr., based on the beloved book by Roald Dahl, is a gleefully witty ode to the power of imagination. With high-energy dance numbers, catchy songs, and unforgettable characters, the production is the perfect showcase for emerging young performers. This debut marks the beginning of a now annual program offered by way of The Bushnell’s Education Department, highlighting the creativity, talent, and potential of the region’s next generation of performing artists.

PERFORMANCE DATES: March 28 and 29th, 2026
The Belding Theater at The Bushnell Center for Performing Arts
Tickets on sale soon at Shows & Concerts | The Bushnell | The Bushnell

SEE FULL CAST LIST BELOW:
MATILDA WORMWOOD – Sophia Parente and Quinn Blake
MISS HONEY – Cameron Miller and Julia Schrieber
TRUNCHBULL – Oliver Robb and Quinn Carson
MR. WORMWOOD – Parker Nelson and Tate Nold
MRS. WORMWOOD – Avery McMahon and Rayna Lucas
MICHAEL WORMWOOD – Ethan Gross and Jonah Robb
LAVENDER –Gabriella Jorgensen and Sophia Strumolo
BRUCE – Leo Storiale and Max Sinatro
AMANDA – Ellie Tuohey and Maura Lefchak
ERIC(A) – Gianna Ruggiero and Silas Caporuscio
ALICE – Nailah Asare and Vega Ludovici
HORTENSIA –Rachel Jerusik and Serena Hoffman
NIGEL – Liam Perry and Samuel Greer
TAMMY – Cecilia Cancel and Olivia Silva
MRS. PHELPS – Lila Redfield and Lila Straybrat
RUDOLPHA – Alina Tringali and Nia Williams
THE ESCAPOLOGIST – Juliet Beaupre and Lucy Ouimet
THE ACROBAT – Maren Cugell and Maya Johns
SERGEI– Dalton Schroeder and Emma Gasparini
COOK- Colette Morse and Maven Eure
MECHANIC – Teddy Constantine

This production marks a new chapter in the Bushnell’s continued commitment to cultivating young talent and expanding access to quality theatre education and performance opportunities.

Please visit our website to learn more about the Bushnell Performing Arts Scholars program!
The Bushnell Performing Arts Scholars | The Bushnell