Lincoln-Way West Cast Ready To Shine In 'Matilda The Musical'

NEW LENOX, IL — Lincoln-Way West students are set to shine in Matilda the Musical, with performances scheduled for April 19–21.

The musical, based on the children's classic by Roald Dahl, features nearly 100 students playing their parts in the Tony Award-winning musical.

The show depicts "the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life.

Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers. She's unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher Miss Honey. During her first term at school, the two forge a bond as Miss Honey begins to recognize and appreciate Matilda's extraordinary personality. Matilda's school life isn't completely smooth sailing, however – the school's mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves to punish those who don't abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school pupils' saving grace!

Description of Roald Dahl's 'Matilda The Musical'

"Matilda the Musical is sometimes sweet, sometimes sad and sometimes a little bit naughty!" said Director Connie Johnson. "It’s a great show for the whole family, and while the antagonist, Agatha Trunchbull can at times be a little scary, there are always cheers when Matilda and her classmates chase her off."

The production crew includes Producer and Music Director Tom Venutolo, Director Connie Johnson, Choreographer Jill Rector, Stage Manager Hannah Nicks, Lighting Design by Tyler Dawson, Auditorium Supervisor Patrick Spreadbury, Set Design by James Rector, Construction Lead John Frank, Parent Volunteer Coordinator Sarah Buda and Student Activities Director Heather Novak.

The cast features Kaleigh Buda as "Matilda," Oliver Fennessy as "Miss Trunchbull," Ava Sandrzyk as "Miss Honey," Jacob Buda as "Mr. Wormwood," Amanda Widstrand as "Mrs. Wormwood," Dani Powers as "Michael Wormwood," and Alexis Whitmer as "Mrs. Phelps." A full cast list is seen below.

In addition to the exhilarating dances, clever acting and beautiful vocal harmonies, the audience can expect "captivating lighting, amazing sets and stunning special effects and costumes," Johnson said.

"We have larger than life children’s blocks, school gates that swing open, and moving swings."

The students started preparing in January, with weekly acting, singing, and dance rehearsals.

There will be four performances of the show, to be held at Lincoln-Way West, 21701 S. Gougar Rd.:

• Friday, April 19 at 7 p.m.
• Saturday, April 20 at 1 p.m.
• Saturday, April 20 at 7 p.m.
• Sunday, April 21 at 3 p.m.

"There is so much raw talent at Lincoln-Way West, and it has been a pleasure helping to guide our students and watch them flourish as a team both on stage and behind the scenes, while creating this highly entertaining show," Johnson said. "We can’t wait for everyone to see what five months of hard work and dedication look like on stage!"