"I think this is a really funny show," said Eastern York High School senior Austin Kelly, describing "Matilda the Musical." "Every time I'm watching something on stage, I'm laughing."

Eastern York High School will present "Matilda the Musical" at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 16, through Saturday, March 18, with an additional performance at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday.

"Matilda," based on the book by Roald Dahl, tells the story of the title character, a precocious young girl who struggles to fit in with her family and at school. "She's a miracle - she's super smart and she has magical powers," explained Abi Solihin, a junior who plays the title role. "She can move things with her mind. This show is all about overcoming obstacles in life and solving problems."

Austin, who portrays Miss Trunchbull, the headmistress of Matilda's school, said while the show is funny, it has some emotional depth as well. "There are parts that are sad in a way and there are emotional parts, but there are a lot of lighthearted moments and a lot of goofy points," he stated. "You're not going to see this show and leave feeling bogged down."

Senior Jesse Richardson portrays Matilda's teacher, Miss Honey, in the musical. "This is a great show for all ages," she remarked. "What's so cool about 'Matilda' is it's a show about a little girl essentially overcoming these big problems, standing up to a bully, so younger kids will relate to that. Older kids will appreciate the comedic, lighthearted parts, and adults will understand the deeper undercurrent of Matilda having a tough life."

The role of Miss Trunchbull is traditionally gender swapped, and Eastern York has also gendered swapped the role of Matilda's father, Mr. Wormwood, casting junior Lillian Cichocki. Lillian said the role allows opportunity for broad humor. "We get a lot of comedy out of playing these parts," she said, referring to her and Austin's roles. "It's really fun, and we get a lot of laughs." She added that along with humor on stage, audiences can expect to see a visually stunning show, noting, "All of our costumes are absolutely amazing."

Director Rebecca Kurtek emphasized that the cast of 40 - which includes about a dozen middle-school students - gets to work on a stage filled with impressive sets and special effects. "Our set design is really awesome this year," she remarked. "We have a 15-foot bookcase on stage. There's a lot of magic that occurs in this show as well, since Matilda can move things with her mind."

Overall, "Matilda the Musical" will leave audiences in a good mood, Jesse said. "It's such a sweet show," she shared. "It makes you smile."

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/yc83hhc8. Tickets will also be available at the door.