MFL MarMac arts students will bring the Roald Dahl novel “Matilda” to the stage this weekend. Showings are slated for 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6 and 2 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, in the high school auditorium in Monona. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time or with cash or card at the door.

Director Cheri Moser was drawn to the show because it isn’t a typical love story.

“A lot of musicals center on two people meeting and falling in love, which can be tough to portray genuinely in high school. Matilda’s love story is about finding friends and a grown-up she can trust, people who see her worth and make her feel safe and loved. There’s something really beautiful about that,” Moser said. “I also love the message of the show. Matilda reminds us that being small doesn’t mean you’re powerless. You can speak up when something is wrong, stand up for someone else and help change things for the better.”

Moser believes this is a message for all ages. For adults specifically, “it’s a great reminder that one person showing a child kindness and believing in them can make all the difference.”

The dancing is another highlight of Matilda. Moser cited choreography as one of her favorite parts of a show, and Matilda features many strong performers.

“I wanted a show where the ensemble could have just as much fun as the lead characters,” Moser said. “Every member of a show is important, and Matilda gives our students so many opportunities to bring big personalities and energy to the stage. Between the characters, the music and the humor, there’s a lot for audiences to enjoy.”

This is Moser’s first year at the helm of an MFL MarMac musical production. She is assisted by husband Jonathon. The two are taking over for long-time director Diane Fisk, and hope to carry on the strides the theatre program made in her tenure.

“When [Fisk] decided to step down after last year, I wanted to help make sure the program continued to grow. Both Jonathon and I have gotten to know a lot of these students through our kids, speech and other activities, so we already had those connections with them,” Moser said. “We love theatre and have seen how much it has added to our lives, from friendships to confidence and the sense of belonging it gives people. We want to help give students those same opportunities.”

Fisk has been by the Mosers’ sides through the entire process. She’s been at rehearsal each night, helping with behind-the-scenes aspects.

“She knows just how much goes into a show like this, and we are so grateful for her support. Her continued involvement says a lot about how much she cares about these students and the relationships she has built with them,” Moser reflected.

Also impressive is the student cast, which has been rehearsing since September.

Junior Taryn Moser is taking on the lead role, and said she’s enjoyed getting to interact with a lot of different characters.

“I also like that my character is a smart child because she gets into all sorts of mischief,” she said.

Her favorite part, though, is interacting with talented castmates and friends.

“This show has such a complex storyline and it’s really fun to get to experience all of it with other people who also love this show,” Moser said.

Other castmates felt similarly.

Sophomore Jonathon Whitney plays two drastically different roles as Sergai/Party Entertainer.

“What I love most about working on Matilda as a whole is getting to be part of a talented cast of actors, singers and dancers,” he said.

Senior Jadlynn Cross has loved meeting new people, building friendships and learning the importance of teamwork. Playing Miss Trunchbull, who Cross described as a “mean and intimidating character,” has been fun and also pushed her outside her comfort zone.

“Musical theater is about so much more than just performing on stage; it is about the memories we make, the challenges we overcome and the friendships we build along the way,” Cross shared.

Also getting to stretch her performing chops is senior Mackenzie O’Connell, who plays the doctor and is part of the ensemble. In past years, O’Connell was usually the bratty girl with a high pitched, snobby voice. This year, she is able to have a deep voice while connecting with the audience on every little miracle that comes to the world.

“I get to act scary in a low belt when I’m a big kid, and get to act happy and whimsical in songs such as ‘When I Grow Up!’” she said.

From seventh grade through senior year, O’Connell has seen how all students meet the challenge and give their best effort for the musical.

One of her takeaways is that “Just because you were born in a dysfunctional household does not mean you can’t make something of yourself...and I believe our cast shows that throughout the entire show. Sure, there are funny moments here and there, but our cast is excited to share those important messages with our audiences,” O’Connell said.

Junior Olivia Kirby also connected with this message while playing Miss Honey. She feels representing Miss Honey has shown how someone’s overall actions toward a person can change and break down a person.

“Miss Honey can be seen as very pathetic, and it is hard for her to speak up to someone after living a harsh life. An important takeaway from Matilda is that kindness can change someone’s life,” Kirby said. “Being a part of this musical and being dedicated, along with the rest of my cast, has shown me a meaningful message: Even the smallest person can make a big difference in someone’s life.”

Director Moser said Matilda promises big characters, fast set changes and an exciting, funny show for audiences. Making it all happen takes work from everyone, and she’s enjoyed watching the cast and crew take ownership of the whole production. “I hope our community fills those seats and helps us celebrate and support our arts students at MFL MarMac,” she said.