Matilda JR. Brings Magic, Mischief, and a Sold-Out Season to the Stage

It was a season to remember in the Jamie and Rebecca Gray Theatre, as audiences packed the house for Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR. and enjoyed a vibrant celebration of courage, creativity, and the power of standing up for what’s right.

From the first note to the final bow, the cast, crew, and creative team delivered a production that was as witty and heart-warming as Tim Minchin’s lyrics and as bold as Roald Dahl’s beloved heroine herself. Across four sold-out performances, the show captured the imagination of audiences young and old with its infectious energy, clever storytelling, and dazzling design.

Behind the scenes, students worked tirelessly across every aspect of theatre-making, as performers, designers, technicians, and stage crew. The result was a production that shone with teamwork, artistry, and joy. The creative team’s vision transformed the stage into a world of chalkboards, chaos, and childlike wonder, reminding us that even the smallest voices can make the biggest noise.

This show was a celebration of what happens when creativity and collaboration meet courage. Our students threw themselves into every rehearsal and every performance with such heart, which has been pure magic.

Alongside the scores of students involved on the stage and behind the scenes, our heartfelt thanks to the creative collaborators who helped bring Matilda JR. to life: Kath Lucas (Co-Director), Lucy Mason (Assistant Director and Backstage Management), Lilla Barrington (Choreographer, Drama Captain ’24), Miranda Ware (Assistant Director, Drama Captain ’23), Set Designer Andrew Plant, Musical Director Frank Blakiston, Vocal Coach Libby Choo, Lisa Morgan (Costume Manager). We also extend our gratitude to the ever-supportive maintenance team — Peter, Andrae, and Mark — whose craftsmanship helped the world of Matilda leap from page to stage. Thank you to the Creative Arts Auxiliary for organising and running the refreshments stall, and for cooking lunch for the cast and crew between the matinee and evening shows on Saturday.

The production was more than just a show, it was a testament to the spirit of St Catherine’s Performing Arts: imaginative, collaborative, and bold.

As the curtain falls on this sold-out season, the legacy of Matilda Jr. lives on, reminding us all that “even if you’re little, you can do a lot.”

Upcoming Auditions

The 2026 Senior Musical will be revealed next week, along with audition information for our current Year 9, 10 and 11 cohorts. The cast will be selected and announced before the end of this year. Exciting times ahead!