Roald Dahl’s Matilda is up and running at Artistic Synergy of Baltimore (ASoB). Directed by Anthony Case, the show keeps in line with other ASoB productions. There can be no question when it comes to ASoB and their dedication to the young thespians of the community. Even when the tech gremlins invaded opening night— the lights didn’t work and instead of leaving the house-lights up, the entire show was done with a follow spot on whoever was singing or speaking— the show must go on. Additionally, there were major sound issues from mic’s not working to mic’s not being brought up or turned off when off stage. Those that did work were usually cracking or unintelligible.
The one mic that seemed to work fine was that of Kara Krickler. Krickler stepped into the lead role on opening night as their original Matilda, Keira Cassidy-Stewart, had taken ill. As an audience we were treated to an amazing performance by Kara Krickler in the show’s title role. I couldn’t help but wonder what we were missing without Cassidy-Stewart because Krickler could have been cast in the role in any number of other theatres. Congratulations to Kara Krickler on a job well done and I look forward to seeing her perform in the future.
Having an understudy be that prepared is a tribute to Musical Director Robert Lopez. During group numbers the sound engineer brought the volume down and this was for the best. At these times you could hear the harmonies and blending of the voices. This gave us an opportunity to appreciate the quality of their voices and the time that they put into honing their craft.
I was very impressed with the choreography of Madison Cosden and Stephanie Lopez. Their vision was delivered with style and class. The group moved as a unit and most importantly you could tell that they were having fun. I especially liked the staging and shaping, showing that thought went into choreographing each number. When too many times choreo is an afterthought, their work should not be overlooked.
Supporting cast Jack Brown, Abel Browne, Makayla Gard, and Skyler Haldens do not disappoint. Browne and Gard are a joy as Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood and will keep you laughing. Haldens as the Dr. delivers a powerful version of a person in charge. All are excellent character actors.
One cannot talk about ASoB’s Matilda without speaking highly of Reed VanBlargen’s performance as Trunchbull. VanBlargen is perfectly cast as the hammer-throwing antagonist. Besides giving an award-winning acting performance, VanBlargen shows off the voice as well. Their rough, abrasive character is the total opposite of Krickler’s soft, docile tone, and I want more of it! Krickler and VanBlargen both have performances you won’t want to miss.
Running Time: 2 hours and 40 minutes with one intermission
Matilda plays through August 13th 2023 with Artistic Synergy of Baltimore at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church— 8212 Philadelphia Road in Rosedale, MD. Tickets are available at the door or in advance online.
