Matilda JR is the story of an extraordinary little girl with extraordinary powers. The daughter of abusive parents, Matilda finds refuge in library books, which she reads quickly. While doing this, she learns how to create stories and change her own. Things are no better at school, where Matilda also must face a tyrannical and cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, who believes in Crunchem Hall’s motto: “Bambinatum est Magitum,” or “Children are Maggots.” She finds companionship in her teacher, Miss Honey, who, though well-intentioned, is shy and fragile. Brave little Matilda knows she has to stand up against the adults in her world, and in doing so, discovers her own remarkable powers. Matilda’s bravery teaches Miss Honey and her classmates an important lesson - that even though life can be hard, “nobody but me is gonna change my story” so “sometimes you have to be a little bit naughty.”

Welcome to Matilda Jr! I have been a fan of Roald Dahl's stories for much of my life and when I first saw “Revolting Children” at the Tony Awards, I fell in love. Dahl and Kelly's brilliant, satirical writing of children fighting to be treated as the special people they are, and the mix of Minchin's music were the perfect show for us this year. You will see that we have the most excellent kids for this production (both on and backstage). Inspired by the amazing cast at Ravenwood High School last year, that included my son as Nigel, I wanted to take on a show that I have never directed and introduce all of HMS’ students to Matilda and her strong belief of what is right and wrong in the world. Matilda is the ultimate story of a brave, resilient little girl rising to fight the cruelty and bullying before her. She does not ignore what is happening but asks why and helps the people around her as we all should. While this is a difficult show, the cast and crew took it on with their whole hearts and a wonderful team was formed with one mission: put on a great show! I would like to take this time to also welcome Mr. Meza to the world of teaching and directing. He comes to us with an open heart and amazing energy that has given a spark to everyone around him. I would like to thank my “biological” children who inspire me daily with their imaginations, strong moral values, humor and intelligence and my “student” children for their spirit, dedication and hard work. I would lastly like to thank my parents who let me major in theater in the first place and my best friend and husband who has had my back in this game for over 21 years. It is with the great love of theater, music, and the students here at HMS that I welcome you to Matilda Jr. Please sit back, laugh, and enjoy our show!