SAAC’s Drama Club fall production of Roald Dahl’s “Matilda the Musical JR.” will be presented on the SAAC stage November 6–8, 2025. This production, sponsored by the Lenatter Fox Theatre Fund, features area students in grades 7-12.

Based on the children’s novel by Roald Dahl, with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin, Matilda JR. is a celebration of imagination, resilience, and the transformative power of courage. With wit and heart, the musical follows the journey of Matilda Wormwood, a brilliant young girl with astonishing wit and intelligence who dares to take a stand against injustice.

Taking on the title role is Addy Miller as Matilda Wormwood. She faces ridicule and neglect at home from her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood (John David Williamson/Sydney Patterson), along with her brother Michael (Gunnar Mote). When Matilda arrives at school, she quickly realizes things aren’t much better there. She joins the younger students (Eve McDowell, Luke Legg, Bennett Sandifer, Abylee Padgett, Bram Johnson, Gianna Trisollini, Lynlee Steele, and Madilyn Qualls), and, together, they encounter the older students (Heather Drummond, Eleanor Kriehn, Carley Gilkey, Lilly Bergeron, Ava Cary, Kalvari King, Kate Moss, Emma Odom, and Ethan Mixon) who warn them of the horrors of Physical Education.

Among the bright lights in Matilda’s world are Mrs. Phelps (Aubree Matthews), the kind librarian who listens to the tales Matilda spins about the Acrobat (Clara Matheny) and her husband the Escapologist (Gideon Moncrief). Matilda also finds support in her schoolteacher, Miss Honey (Audrey Henderson), who recognizes the extraordinary intelligence within her. However, the menacing headmistress Miss Trunchbull (Parker Thomas) who despises children and revels in punishing anyone who refuses to follow her strict rules, challenges their efforts.

As tensions rise, the students begin to fight back against Miss Trunchbull, sparking a rebellion that takes the school by storm. With its humor, energy, and heartfelt message, Matilda JR. reminds audiences that even in the face of adversity, one voice—no matter how small—has the power to inspire change.

Directed by Lynn Gunter, with musical direction by Cassie Hickman, the production promises an engaging performance that highlights the talents of every young artist in the cast. “Matilda JR. is such an empowering story for young people, and it’s been a joy to watch our cast take ownership of its message,” said director Lynn Gunter. “The students bring energy and heart to their roles, and I think audiences will be moved not only by their performances but also by the story’s reminder that we all have the power to change our own narrative.”

Performances will take place November 6–8, 2025, at the South Arkansas Arts Center. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Visit the online box office or call the SAAC office at 870-862-5474.