Through most of 2014 I was rehearsing, then playing the role of Lavender in Matilda The Musical, at the Cambridge Theatre, Covent Garden.
I always loved the Roald Dahl book and had watched the Danny DeVito film many times, but the Royal Shakespeare Company’s adaptation for the Theatre was my favourite. I had been to see the musical with my Mum quite a few times, and various friends of mine have been in previous casts, so when I got to perform in the show it was so exciting.
Lavender was a great role for me. She’s Matilda’s best friend and has some really funny lines throughout, especially when playing a prank on Ms. Trunchbull, with a newt. That’s all I’m saying as I don’t want to spoil it, especially if you haven’t seen it!!! And there are some big musical numbers throughout the show, with very technical dance routines… my favourite was always ‘Revolting Children’ near the end of the show.
The whole cast were incredible. All of the adults, the Matilda’s and the kids in our team. Amazing. And they will always be such good friends.
During my run we got to appear on The Paul O’Grady show on ITV, performing Revolting Children, and the brilliant US cast of Dance Mums came to see me perform as Lavender – I’ve done separate posts on those special days – and I must also say a HUGE thank you to all my friends, my school-friends and teachers, and my family who came to watch me in the theatre show… but one night will always stand out for me. The night Tim Minchin came to watch!!! The show’s composer and lyricist. I was so proud he’d seen us perform. What an amazing and talented man. And so kind. He even let me have a photo with him at the stage door, after the show.
2014 has been a great year!!! 🙂
Jaime Adler 