British Theatre
Matilda The Musical
Musicals
4.6
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Matilda The Musical

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About the show

The Royal Shakespeare Company's multi-award-winning musical brings Roald Dahl's beloved story to life at the Cambridge Theatre. With a book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda celebrates the power of imagination and standing up for what's right. Winner of seven Olivier Awards including Best New Musical.

What is Matilda The Musical about?

Matilda tells the story of an extraordinary little girl with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, who dares to take a stand and change her destiny. Ignored by her TV-obsessed parents, the Wormwoods, and terrorised by the monstrous headmistress Miss Trunchbull, Matilda discovers she has remarkable powers. With the support of her kind teacher Miss Honey, she learns to stand up for herself and those she loves.

How long has Matilda been running in London?

Matilda The Musical opened at the Cambridge Theatre on 24 November 2011, and is now in its 15th year in the West End. The production celebrated its 5,000th performance in April 2025 and has been seen by over 12 million people across 100 cities worldwide. It is the 10th longest-running production in West End history.

What are the best songs in Matilda?

Tim Minchin's witty and moving score includes 'Naughty', 'When I Grow Up', 'Revolting Children', 'Quiet', and the beautiful 'My House'. The songs perfectly capture both the rebellious spirit of childhood and the show's deeper themes about the power of stories and standing up against injustice.

Is Matilda The Musical better than the Netflix film?

The 2022 Netflix adaptation starring Emma Thompson brought Matilda to a new audience, but the stage show offers a theatrical experience the film can't replicate. The ingenious staging, including the famous school corridor created from children's wooden blocks, and the energy of a live cast of young performers create unforgettable magic at the Cambridge Theatre.

What are the best seats for Matilda?

The Stalls offer the most immersive experience, particularly for children who will be closer to the action. The Dress Circle provides an excellent overview of Rob Howell's clever set design. Central seats in either section give the best view of the famous 'Revolting Children' number. The Cambridge Theatre is relatively intimate, so most seats offer good views.

Is Matilda a good show for children?

Matilda is one of the best family musicals in London, perfect for children aged 6 and above. Kids love seeing a young heroine stand up to the adults, while parents appreciate the clever humour and emotional depth. For other family shows, consider The Lion King or Wicked.

Cancellation policy: theatre tickets cannot be cancelled, exchanged, or refunded once purchased.

Performance schedule

Evenings: 7pm Tues; 7.30pm Wed – Sat
Matinees: 2.30pm Wed & Sat; 3pm Sun

Ratings & Reviews

4.6

3,782 reviews

5 star
4 star
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Based on 3,782 verified audience ratings from official ticket partners.

Cast & Creatives

Who is in the Matilda London cast?

The current London cast features Jon Robyns as Miss Trunchbull, Eve Norris as Miss Honey, Neil McDermott as Mr Wormwood, and Tiffany Graves as Mrs Wormwood. The role of Matilda is shared by Suki Hillier, Edie McCaig, Mia Rogers, and Emilia Shefford. Tania Mathurin plays Mrs Phelps, the village librarian.

Who wrote Matilda The Musical?

Matilda The Musical features a book by Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin, based on the novel by Roald Dahl. The production is developed and directed by Matthew Warchus, with choreography by Peter Darling, set and costume design by Rob Howell, orchestrations by Christopher Nightingale, and lighting by Hugh Vanstone.

What awards has Matilda won?

Matilda The Musical has won over 100 international awards. In London, it won a record-breaking seven Olivier Awards in 2012, including Best New Musical - tying with Hamilton and Cabaret for the most Oliviers won by a musical. On Broadway, it won four Tony Awards including Best Book of a Musical. The show has also won 24 awards for Best Musical across its global productions.

Frequently asked questions

What age is Matilda suitable for?

Matilda is recommended for children aged 6 and above. Children under the age of 4 will not be admitted to the Cambridge Theatre . The show contains some scenes of comic bullying by Miss Trunchbull that very young children might find intense

though most children find these scenes funny.

How long is Matilda The Musical?

The performance lasts approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes

including one 20-minute interval.

Does Matilda have any special effects?

Yes

Matilda The Musical features flashing lights

lasers

loud sound effects

and haze. Latex balloons are popped onstage and performers interact in audience spaces during parts of the show.

Can children attend Matilda alone?

No

anyone aged 15 or under must have a valid ticket and be seated with an adult (18+) when attending Matilda at the Cambridge Theatre .

Do children need their own seat at Matilda?

Yes

all children need their own ticket and must be able to sit in their own seat without assistance. The theatre does not permit lap-sitting.

Can I take photos at Matilda?

Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during all performances of Matilda The Musical.

What happens if I arrive late to Matilda?

Latecomers will be admitted at a suitable break in the performance

but entry cannot be guaranteed. The opening number sets up the story

so arriving on time is recommended.

How long is Matilda The Musical with interval?

Matilda runs for approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes

including one 20-minute interval.

Is Matilda suitable for a 5 year old?

Matilda is recommended for ages 6 and above. Children under 4 are not admitted. The show contains comic scenes of bullying that may be intense for very young children

though most find them funny.

Where is Matilda playing in London?

Matilda plays at the Cambridge Theatre

Seven Dials

32-34 Earlham Street

London WC2H 9HU. The nearest tube station is Covent Garden (Piccadilly line).

What time does Matilda start?

Evening performances are at 7pm Tuesday to Friday and 7:30pm on Saturday. Matinee performances are at 2pm on Wednesday

Saturday

and Sunday.

Is Matilda scary for kids?

Miss Trunchbull is intentionally over-the-top and comedic rather than genuinely frightening. Most children love the scenes where she gets her comeuppance. The show celebrates children's resilience and is ultimately heartwarming and empowering.

Venue

Cambridge Theatre

32 Earlham Street, WC2H 9HU

View venue
Tube

Covent Garden, Leicester Square

Train

Charing Cross

Bus

1, 14, 19, 22, 29, 34, 55, 176

Parking

NCP Shelton Street, Chinatown, Trafalgar (Q Park Scheme)

Cambridge Theatre seating plan

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