AMAZINGLY talented young people, members of CODS Youth Theatre Academy, wowed audiences with its very first production, the much-loved musical Matilda Jr.

Enjoying cake during Matilda Jr. Photos: Rory Oliver Photography
Enjoying cake during Matilda Jr. Photos: Rory Oliver Photography (Rory Oliver Photography)
Birthday time during Matilda Jr.
Birthday time during Matilda Jr. (Rory Oliver Photography)

The brand-new youth theatre group received standing ovations at each of its four performances.

Based on the much-loved story by Roald Dahl, Matilda Jr is a vibrant and energetic musical celebrating imagination, courage, friendship and the power of standing up for what is right.

Matilda, left, with other CYTA performers.
Matilda, left, with other CYTA performers. (Rory Oliver Photography)
Young stars on stage for Matilda. Photos: Rory Oliver Photography
Young stars on stage for Matilda. Photos: Rory Oliver Photography (Rory Oliver Photography)

The production marked an exciting new chapter for CYTA, which has been created to give young people the opportunity to develop their confidence, performance skills and love of theatre in a friendly and supportive environment.

Founders and Directors Lyndsey Betts and Holly Harris, Musical Director Emma Williams and Georgia Steel the Choreographer said that they are thrilled to see the academy come to life.

Yes he really did have green hair in Matilda Jr!
Yes he really did have green hair in Matilda Jr! (Rory Oliver Photography)
Miss Trunchbull lead a fitness session during Matilda Jr.
Miss Trunchbull lead a fitness session during Matilda Jr. (Rory Oliver Photography)

Before the performances began they said: “This is such an exciting moment for CYTA. We wanted to create a place where young people can come together, make friends, build confidence and discover just how much they can achieve through theatre.

Miss Trunchbull and pupils.
Miss Trunchbull and pupils. (Rory Oliver Photography)
Family members on stage. Photos: Rory Oliver Photography
Family members on stage. Photos: Rory Oliver Photography (Rory Oliver Photography)

“To be launching with Matilda Jr feels absolutely perfect. It is a story about finding your voice, believing in yourself and never giving up — and those are wonderful messages for young people.”

Miss Honey and Miss Trunchbull.
Miss Honey and Miss Trunchbull. (Rory Oliver Photography)
Some of the cast of Matilda Jr on stage.
Some of the cast of Matilda Jr on stage. (Rory Oliver Photography)

The CYTA musical project was launched in May, rehearsals taking place weekly ahead of their October performances.

It was staged at QE Upper School from October 29 to 31 October (including a Saturday Matinee).

Matilda played by Charlotte Boddy shone on stage.
Matilda played by Charlotte Boddy shone on stage. (Rory Oliver Photography)
Some of the CYTA cast of Matilda. Photos: Rory Oliver Photography
Some of the CYTA cast of Matilda. Photos: Rory Oliver Photography (Rory Oliver Photography)

Matilda was played by Charlotte Buddy with Zoe Weetman as Miss Honey and Eliza Pearce as the Young Miss Honey. Miss Trunchbull by Amelia Lethbridge, Mr Wormwood by Charlie Addis, Mrs Wormwood by Isabella Betts, with many others taking leading roles.

Matilda played by Charlotte Boddy during one of her many songs.
Matilda played by Charlotte Boddy during one of her many songs. (Rory Oliver Photography)
Matilda and Mrs Phelps.
Matilda and Mrs Phelps. (Rory Oliver Photography)

Well done all involved, there was amazing singing, acting, solos, and we offer nothing but praise.

The incredible talent bodes well for the future of CODS and CYTA.

Mrs Wormwood and Rudolpho.
Mrs Wormwood and Rudolpho. (Rory Oliver Photography)
Matilda during one of her songs.
Matilda during one of her songs. (Rory Oliver Photography)