Royal Shakespeare Company stages world premiere of Roald Dahl's Matilda in winter 2010
30 September 2009
The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) announced today that a new musical version of the Roald Dahl children's story Matilda will be premiered by the Company at The Courtyard Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon next winter.
Directed by Matthew Warchus, the original novel has been adapted from the 1988 book by Dennis Kelly with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin.
Roald Dahl's Matilda is a favourite novel for millions of children. The central character is a little girl with astonishing wit and intelligence, but who is unloved by her parents. She impresses her school teacher with her brilliance and over the course of the daunting, and at times frightening first term at school, they have a profound effect on each other's lives.
Felicity Dahl, Roald Dahl's widow, said today; "I am thrilled that Matilda is becoming a reality on stage and that our partners at the RSC share this excitement. We are so proud that Roald's stories continue to be met with such excitement and joy by children all over the world. And with this project, thousands more children will engage with his magical world yet again, but this time as a wonderful theatrical experience."
RSC Artistic Director Michael Boyd said: "Matilda is a magical and darkly funny book that the RSC has wanted to bring to life on stage for many years. I'm delighted – not least as the father of an eight year old girl – that Dahl's classic tale will play in Stratford for a family audience to enjoy at Christmas. Dennis, Matthew and Tim bring a combination of creativity, wit and mischief to the production which will make the show an experience to remember. We've very grateful to the Dahl Estate for allowing us to adapt the book."
Further details to be announced.
Further information
For more information, please contact philippa.harland@rsc.org.uk or 020 7845 0512.
For further information on Roald Dahl - www.roalddahl.com
The RSC gratefully acknowledges the support of the PRS Foundation for New Music towards the composition of Matilda.
