Live theatre is returning to the stage at East Northumberland Secondary School (ENSS) with Matilda the Musical for dates in April and May.
Matilda the Musical is an adaptation of a Ronald Dahl book and is about the story of a brilliant young girl, Matilda Wormwood, who has an awful set of parents, and who is shipped off to boarding school, that’s motto is “Children are Maggots” to be whipped into shape. Instead, she comes into her own and helps defeat the headmistress Miss Agatha Trunchbull, and helps a downtrodden teacher reclaim her life.
“ENSS has been putting on productions since 2001, and we were all heartbroken when we lost the last production of Newsies scheduled in 2020,” said Paul Hussey – drama teacher at ENSS. “We hope that this production will also become a community highlight, and the buzz about it in the community is growing, which is very exciting.”
Hussey told us there’s already a buzz in the community for the upcoming performances.
There will be 6 evening performances on April 27th, 28th, 29th and May 4th, 5th, 6th at 7:00 pm at ENSS and there will be 1 community matinee on April 29th at 2:00 pm.
There are also some special school performances for local elementary school students too.
Tickets are $20 each, $15 for students (aged 13 to 18) and $10 (aged 12 and under). Tickets are available for sale at The Shoe Store in downtown Brighton at the main office at ENSS during school hours. In Trenton, tickets are available at Brunix Jewellers too. Tickets will also be available at the door of each performance.
Hussey said he’s excited to see theatre return to the school allowing young people to learn about themselves and others through the performing arts. He gave us a brief synopsis of the story.
“Drama has an amazing impact and has evolved over the years, added Hussey. “It was always about fun and entertainment but now since the pandemic is even more important, it helps build the social skills of students who work within a group dynamic, and helps to build self-esteem, public speaking skills and confidence.”
Students on stage or working behind the scenes also receive practical experience, learning what it takes to put on a live performance.
ENSS productions never disappoint, and this year’s performance of Matilda the Musical will showcase the talent of many local students, so get your tickets today. For more information about this year’s ENSS production visit East Northumberland Secondary School (kprdsb.ca).
Written by Alicia Vandine
