Jun 18

Jun 18 LCC Presents Matilda The Musical in July

Matilda The Musical will grace the Turner Stage at Lenoir Community College this coming July. The musical's narrative centers on Matilda Wormwood, a precocious 5-year-old girl with the gift of telekinesis. She loves reading, overcomes obstacles caused by her family and school, and helps her teacher reclaim her life.

The show, directed by Lenoir Community College's Jessica Cruz, Fine Arts Program Chair and Music Instructor, will take place on July 14 -16 and July 21 - 23 at LCC in the Briley Auditorium on the Turner Stage. This show is one of many that will be a part of the performing arts series at LCC. The title sponsor of Matilda The Musical is Neuse News.

Tickets are now available at www.lenoircc.edu/matilda. Ticket prices are as follows, accessible seating: $15, orchestra seating: $20, standard seating: $15, and student standard seating (ages 3-17; 18+ student ID required): $10.

Gianna Cruz will take on the main character, Matilda Wormwood, in this production. The 10-year-old from New Bern is passionate about singing and dancing and is excited to share the stage with many friends and family at LCC. Though this is not her first time stepping foot on stage, this will be one of her first prominent roles. She has expressed that playing the role of Matilda is challenging, but she said she is ecstatic to bring this classic Roald Dahl character to life on stage. Cruz also enjoys roller skating and spending time at the beach with her friends and family in her free time. She is grateful to have such significant role models in older siblings who have always looked out for her.

Playing the part of Agatha Trunchbull, the Headmistress of Crunchem Hall, who is a tyrannical headmistress who despises children, is Jennifer Cook. Cook was born and raised in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida but relocated to New Bern in 2006 with her husband and children. She has just completed 20 years in the education field. Cook is no stranger to taking on larger-than-life roles with player characters such as Dolly Levi from Hello Dolly! and "Matron Mama" Morton in Chicago. She said she is thankful for this incredible cast and her family and friends for their continued support on this wild ride called "Live Theater!"

The kind, caring, intelligent character of Miss Honey will be portrayed in this production by Abbie Mejia. This character is Matilda's kindergarten teacher and may be timid at times but is willing to stand up to others when protecting her students. With over 10 years of experience in theater, Mejia is ready to bring this character to life at LCC. Outside of her time in the theater, she works in the arts and crafts program, Studio Crafters, spending time with the residents of Caswell Developmental Center. She is also an accompanist and choir director for Hallsville Presbyterian Church. Mejia said she is hopeful that everyone will enjoy this heartwarming show!

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