Behind the Curtain with Matilda

Go backstage to discover how the cast and crew brought the high school musical to life.

Written by Zoe Leben and Mary Powell

As 5th graders, many of us dream of becoming pro athletes, singers, police officers, reporters, or teachers. Others dream of performing under the bright stage lights. Luckily, the Pewaukee School District has an amazing drama program that begins in middle school and continues through high school.

On February 3rd, the Hook Jr. staff had the exciting opportunity to go behind the scenes of the Matilda musical and interview members of the cast and crew. We learned how the production came together and what it takes to put on a big show.

Students at Pewaukee High School can join the after-school drama club. During rehearsals, students practice singing, dancing, acting, and memorizing lines. They also learn stage movement, teamwork, and how to perform with confidence in front of an audience.

Even though putting on a musical is a huge job, Mr. Sevens and his crew brought Matilda to the stage in just two and a half months, just in time for opening night from February 26th through March 1st.

Mr. Sevens shared that the directors chose this play because it “shows and tells about standing up for what’s right.” The original book, Matilda, was written by Roald Dahl, who also wrote The BFG and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The story follows a brilliant girl with telekinesis who must face a cruel headmistress at school.

After learning about the show, we had the chance to ask questions. We discovered that 46 performers were part of the cast, along with 10–15 students on the tech crew. The tech crew helps with lighting, sound, props, scene changes, and making the show run smoothly backstage.

We also learned about the costume department. Costume designer Darcy, along with a student helper, worked hard to prepare outfits for the performers. Some costume changes take 15 minutes, while others happen in only 15 seconds!

Now you know how this talented cast and crew created the high school musical. If you attend a future performance, keep an eye out for Ethel, a tiny skull that once starred in a past production and is now hidden somewhere in every PHS musical.

In the end, we give Matilda a five-star review!