Q&A with William Squier (Miss Trunchbull)

Q: What's the most fun part of being in "Matilda?”

A: Playing Miss Trunchbull has allowed me to justify all the years I’ve spent watching hammy UK actors on public television. Because I’m stealing my performance from all of them. A little Patricia Routledge (Hyacinth Bucket), a little Anthony Hopkins, a little Angela Lansbury, a little Patrick McGoohan, a little Maggie Smith, a little Alan Rickman, a little Jennifer Saunders (AbFab) and you get Agatha Trunchbull! I’ve mixed a few Americans in, too. See if you can guess who!

Q: Why do you think people should come to see this show?

A: Surprisingly, it speaks to the situation in the world today. If a young lady like Greta Thunberg can wake the entire planet up to the dangers of climate change, who knows how many other “Matilda” there are out there who can also save the world? Maybe story of “Matilda: the Musical” will help to inspire them. Plus, you get to see what happens when I get a newt in my knickers…

Q: If you could play any of the kids' parts, who would you choose, and why?

A: Definitely Bruce Bogtrotter. I’m a big fan of both getting to eat onstage and chocolate cake!

Q&A with Maggie Meath (Miss Honey)

Q: What's the most fun part of being in "Matilda?"

A: “Matilda” is a blast across the board. I’m fortunate enough to have many scenes with Bill (Miss Trunchbull), who is so fun to play with on stage. The most fun I have, though, is in Mrs. Wormwood and Rudolpho‘s scene and song “Loud.” I can’t tell you much without spoiling some fun, but I’ll admit it is pretty tough to keep a straight face. 

Q: Why do you think people should come to see this show?

A: I love “Matilda” because it’s fun and fulfilling for the entire family. There’s a tremendous amount of action and music/dancing for littles, but tons of humor for the adults. There are also many heartwarming and emotional moments for theatre goers who enjoy a little drama. I can’t imagine anyone having a bad time watching this show!

Q: What has it been like to work with so many young actors in this process?

A: I love working with young actors. The energy, enthusiasm and sincerity they all bring to rehearsals is invigorating and infectious. Being able to play with them on stage is a gift.

Q: If you could play any of the kids' parts, who would you choose, and why?

A: Without a doubt, I’d choose Bruce. His part is packed with comedy, silliness and a crazy character arc! It’s a dream role for any comedian.

Q&A with T Sean Maher (Mr. Wormwood)

Q: What's the most fun part of being in "Matilda?"

A: The chance to play a comical villain. I have played the second banana comic many times before and often played the villain. Rarely are they blended. Mr. Wormwood is such a fun role! A children's theatre character in a Mainstage show!

Q: Why do you think people should come to see this show?

A: The chance to see this amazing kids ensemble. The incredible amount of young talent is mind boggling.

Q: If you could go back to school like the kids in this show, what would you do and why?

A: Face all the naysayers, and tell them what I'm thinking.

Q: What has it been like to work with so many young actors in this process?

A: As I said before, the amount of talent is incredible. Our Matildas are taking on some heavy subject matter like pros!

Q: If you could play any of the kids' parts, who would you choose, and why?

A: Probably Michael.....Living in his own little world.

Q&A with Lisa Dahlstrom (Mrs. Wormwood)

Q: What's the most fun part of being in "Matilda?

A: One minute I’m playing Mrs Wormwood who despises children and learning, and then I go offstage and help four-year-olds make bathroom runs and help tween kids in the cast with science homework.  Everyone is a big family and working together onstage and off. 

Q: If you could go back to school like the kids in this show, what would you do and why?

A: I’d get one of those uniforms-they’re so cute! 

Q: What has it been like to work with so many young actors in this process?

A: At almost every rehearsal it’s someone’s birthday, and they’re still so happy about turning a year older!