STUDENTS at a school in Basingstoke dazzled in its first musical performance since the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Pupils at The Costello School, in Crossborough Hill, performed Matilda Jr on Wednesday, June 5, Thursday, June 6, and Friday, June 7.

The musical is a shortened version of the West End production, based on the Roahl Dahl book, Matilda. The story follows the five-year-old as she navigates school, bullies, disapproving parents and telepathy. 

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A collection of photos from the performance (Image: Costello School)

The show features dance numbers such as Bruce, where their classmate tries to finish an enormous chocolate cake, as well as the sinister Chokey Chant, about a box with nails and glass to punish children. 

Ballads including This Little Girl, about kind teacher Miss Honey dreaming of helping Matilda if she could be braver, and When I Grow Up, telling the story of what the children think their adult life would be like, are also included.

The three-night show marked the school's first musical performance since Covid-19, which was reflected in a roar of cheers and claps at the end of every scene. 

Ava was excellent as the mischievous Matilda, delivering every line with passion whilst best friend Lavender, played by Isabelle, brought childlike wonder and joy to the stage.

Samiyah, as headteacher Miss Trunchbull, made adults and children alike cower in fear, as the Wormwood family and Rodolpho, played by Lyla, Eszter, Lilliana and Lotty respectively, made the audience burst into laughter at every line.

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Mrs Trunchbull, played by Samiyah K (Image: Costello School)

The schoolchildren and ensemble danced their hearts out, particularly during the School Song where they warned Matilda and her friends about the horrors of Crunchem Hall.

Ava said she thought the Friday night performance was their 'best night yet'.

She added that the cast spent lots of time after school preparing for the musical, including every week on a Tuesday for six months and at weekends.

Art teacher Mr Spacagna, who also built the set and played a Russian mafia member in Matilda, said: "I am so proud of all the students involved.

"Being able to learn all the lines, choreography and lyrics on top of their school studies and any other outside-of-school commitments should be recognised. Well done Matilda team!"