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Knoxville Children’s Theatre will present a live production of “Matilda The Musical Jr.”

Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning musical is the captivating masterpiece that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life.

With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda has won 47 international awards and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages around the world. The play will be performed July 14th-30th.

Thursdays and Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 1 and 5 p.m. , and Sundays at 3 and 6 p.m. Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers.

She’s unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher Miss Honey.

During her first term at school, the two forge a bond as Miss Honey begins to recognize and appreciate Matilda’s extraordinary personality.

Matilda’s school life isn’t completely smooth sailing, however – the school’s mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves to punish those who don’t abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be her classmates saving grace! Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.

The play is performed by 20 talented young actors and designed by 13 talented young designers from ages 9 to 18. The cast includes KCT veterans Ida Roberson playing Matilda, Trunchbull portrayed by Braelyn Read and Miss Honey by Averi Waller. Other KCT veterans include Olivia Birkbeck (Lavender), Owen Bellamy (Bruce), Julian Daniel (Nigel), Rosalie Linnabary (Alice), Eiley Rickman (Erica), Leeland Robbins (Michael), Conard Belitz (Mr. Wormwood), Maggie Clower (Mrs. Wormwood), and Kira Bellamy (Ms. Phelps). Tinsley Clinton, Riley Watkins and Addison White join the cast portraying multiple roles. Making their KCT debuts in this production are Zoe Brockman (Hortensia), Nora Halliburton (Amanda), Zane Kragenbrink (ensemble), Ryan McCoy (ensemble) and Maxton Read (Tommy).

The show is directed by two-time Tony Award winner Ashlee Latimer. Musical direction is provided by Deena Rhea and Teresa Seals with choreography by Donya Walker Bacon. Cooper Delamain will provide the scenic design with assistance from Lena Kennedy and Chloe Ryerson.

The costume design is provided by Sybella Crane and Katie Moon with assistance from Carlie Houk, Jadyn Spencer, and Ellery Wynn. Michelle Phelps will be the dresser. PJ Copeland will provide the lighting design and the properties are designed by Abby Jackson, Alyssa Kennedy, Lyric Westerfield-Dyer, and Bella Wilkinson. The play’s stage manager is Kennedy Welch and Assistant Stage Manager is Delaney Rickman. KCT is East Tennessee’s leading producer of plays for children and families.