Based on the treasured Roald Dahl novel about an extraordinary young girl who decides to fight back against the domineering adults in her life, including her parents and her school’s headmistress named Miss Trunchbull, “Matilda” is a Tony Award-winning musical entertainment for the whole family.

“Over the past six years, we have developed a tradition of producing a major family musical during the holiday season,” said Evan Hoffmann, NextStop Artistic Director. “When I found out that ‘Matilda’ was becoming available, I jumped on it as fast as I could. This is an amazing musical and a story that I have always loved.

“First and foremost, we call it family friendly because this story really has something for all ages,” added Hoffmann. “It is a great theatrical experience to share with your whole family.

“I love having young performers in our show. I believe strongly in the need to expose young people to theater,” said Hoffmann. “However, I also firmly believe that young actors can frequently give some of the most compelling and authentic performances. The twelve young actors in our production are a perfect example of that.”

For “Matilda” there are two different full casts of young actors in the production. The two separate casts will alternate performing during the run of “Matilda” at NextStop.

Driving “Matilda” are nearly two dozen songs with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin with orchestration and additional music by Chris Nightingale.

For veteran musical director Elisa Rosman, “’Matilda” is 100 percent energy. The musical numbers are actually wildly varied to fit the storytelling needs. For example, we go from fun fair ground music to really uplifting ballads to energizing revolution.”

Rosman will lead a live band with instruments including keyboards, drums, bass, trumpet and a reed musician on flute, clarinet and saxophone and one trumpet player. Examples of “Matilda” songs include two “at opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of mood,” noted Rosman. The two are the sweeter "When I Grow Up" and the more militant "Revolting Children."

“I find them both to be almost anthems of empowerment and resilience.”

"’Matilda’ has great music, wonderful characters, awesome production numbers, and a sense of magic and wonder that makes it a remarkable evening of entertainment,” added Hoffmann.

The musical “Matilda” at NextStop is a magical story about a courageous, imaginative young girl who discovers how powerful she can become.

Where and When

NextStop Theatre Education Program Production of “Matilda” at 269 Sunset Drive Park, Sunset Business Park, Herndon. Performances Nov. 14 to Dec. 22, 2019. Thursdays, Nov. 14 and Dec. 5, 2019 at 7 p.m. Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturday Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. is currently sold out. Saturday Nov. 23 and Nov. 30 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. and Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. with Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. Sunday Nov. 17 at 2 p.m., Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 at 2 p.m., Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. with Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets: $40-$55. (NextStop strongly encourages booking in advance. Ticket prices increase as performances get nearer and fill up). For tickets call: 866-811-4111, or visit www.NextstopTheatre.org. Note: NextStop has a limited quantities available of a Family 4 Pack. Buy 3 Get 1 Free with code “NextStopFam.” There is a limit one 4-pack per patron per performance. For details visit www.NextstopTheatre.org.