If audience reaction is any measure of success, Theatre Whakatāne’s production of Matilda the Musical is already a runaway hit, with opening night audiences erupting into cheers, laughter and applause.

Directed by Trace Tidd, this high-energy production captures all the wit, wonder and wicked humour of Roald Dahl’s beloved story, brought to life through Dennis Kelly’s clever script and Tim Minchin’s brilliantly sharp songs.

Fast-paced, funny and visually impressive, it is a show bursting with confidence and talent.

At the heart of the story is Matilda – a bright, book-loving girl trapped between selfish parents and the terrifying tyranny of headmistress Mrs Trunchbull.

Finding solace in stories, Matilda forms friendships with her gentle teacher Miss Honey, played beautifully by Jess Walker, and warm-hearted librarian Mrs Phelps, portrayed by Tatiana Sharp.

The demanding title role is shared by Kyla McNiven, Orla Rumball and Sarah-Jane Ford, with Sarah-Jane taking centre stage on opening night and delivering a standout performance full of charm, intelligence and determination.

The show’s huge cast of children – from youngsters to teens – throws itself wholeheartedly into every scene, singing and dancing with infectious enthusiasm.

Their energy drives the production, particularly during crowd-pleasing musical numbers such as Revolting Children, The Chockey Chant and The Smell of Rebellion.

Comedy comes thick and fast thanks to Matilda’s outrageous parents.

Mrs Wormwood is played with scene-stealing flair by Leny Woolsey, while her obnoxious and foolish husband is perfectly captured by Maurice Reid.

Mrs Wormwood’s flamboyant flamenco routine alongside dance instructor Rudolpho, hilariously played by Nate Smyth, is one of the night’s many memorable moments.

Then there is the monstrous Mrs Trunchbull – once a hammer-throwing champion and now the stuff of schoolyard nightmares.

Equal parts terrifying and ridiculous, the character, played brilliantly by Pete Tihema, looms large over the production and delivers some of the show’s biggest laughs.

As audiences have come to expect from Theatre Whakatāne, the sets are outstanding.

From detailed classroom scenes to inventive PE equipment, every element helps build the wonderfully chaotic world of Crunchem Hall.

Credit must also go to choreographer Sam McLeod and vocal director Adele Dixon, whose marvellous work keeps the production slick, polished and packed with momentum.

A hugely entertaining night at the theatre for adults and children alike, Matilda the Musical is a triumph well worth seeing.

The show is on at Whakatāne Little Theatre until May 30. Tickets are available from iTicket.co.nz and Whakatāne isite.