Matilda The Musical

Roald Dahl's darkly comic musical continues to wow West End audiences.

MusicalLondon4.6(4,075 reviews)
Matilda The Musical
TheatreMusicalShowFamily
Cambridge Theatre
London

From £25

357 performances available

Playwright Co
October 2026
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Tuesday, 20 October 2026

  • Official tickets
  • Pick your own seats
  • Full refund if your event is cancelled

About this show

Matilda The Musical is the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by Roald Dahl. With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda The Musical is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Winner of over 100 international awards, including 25 for Best Musical, Matilda is now the 10th longest running musical in West End history and has been delighting audiences of all ages for 15 years.

Good to know

Running time · 2hr 35min

Age guidance · Recommended for ages 6+ Under 4s will not be admitted. All persons 16 of age or younger must be accompanied by an adult and cannot be seated alone in the auditorium. All patrons, regardless of age, must have their own ticket.

Next available · Tue, 20 Oct 2026

Refund policy

These tickets cannot be cancelled or rescheduled.

Content warnings

Recommended for ages 6 and above.

What audiences say

Audiences love the enchanting energy and impressive talent displayed throughout Matilda The Musical. Many praise the fantastic choreography, engaging performances from the young cast, and the delightful music that captivates both kids and adults alike. The innovative direction and emotional storytelling contribute to an unforgettable theatre experience.

Incredible young actors Fantastic choreography Engaging performances Feel-good and emotional Great atmosphere

Based on 4,075 audience reviews · 4.6/5 average

What the critics say

1/9
The Guardian (UK)
“Writer Dennis Kelly and composer and lyricist Tim Minchin go to the top of the class with this anarchically joyous, gleefully nasty and ingenious musical adaptation...It captures all the original's delicious nastiness...but it also celebrates the solace of books and the transforming powers of the imagination...The production has a razor-sharp tongue-in-cheek edge...Seldom has the inner rage of the hurt and powerless child been so effectively dramatised.”
Lyn GardnerRead review
Time Out London
“As for the children, they are irresistible, stomping and skipping through Peter Darling's angular choreography, thrilling young audiences and push-pulling grown-ups from tears to gasps to laughter with such relentless energy that it leaves you breathless, exhilarated and marvelling at the many ways in which Minchin, Kelly, and Dahl demonstrate that growing up is a lifelong endeavour. For kids, yes, but also for the children that we all remain at heart, this is wise, wicked, glorious fun.”
Sam MarloweRead review
The Telegraph (UK)
“It is the best new British musical since 'Billy Elliot'...Dennis Kelly, who has adapted Roald Dahl’s famous story for the stage, has previously been responsible for some of the most violent and depressing plays I have ever endured. Here, in a spectacular transformation, he has discovered joy, humour and tenderness, and his script actually improves and deepens Dahl’s original...Matthew Warchus’s thrilling, warm-hearted production...constantly combines comedy with a sense of wonder.”
Charles SpencerRead review
Financial Times (UK)
“The creative team behind this RSC musical (first seen in Stratford last year) pitches the tone beautifully. They catch Dahl’s peppery, mischievous, dark imagination and tell his story of the gifted Matilda, her ghastly parents and her wicked headmistress with real zest. They create a show that appeals to children with its monsters and mess, and to adults with its message that reading is cool...On transfer, it has become overly shrill in places...But it’s still dark, daring and a lot of fun.”
Sarah HemmingRead review
The London Evening Standard
“At the heart of this satisfyingly fresh adaptation of a cherished Roald Dahl story are Australian comedian Tim Minchin's music and lyrics, which ooze humour without veering towards smugness...This is true family entertainment. Children will enjoy its blissful mix of fantasy and irreverence and adults will savour it for these same reasons as well as a host of different ones. This generous, big-hearted piece is already being spoken of as one of the best new British musicals in years.”
Henry HitchingsRead review
WhatsOnStage
“Tim Minchin and Dennis Kelly's reimagining of Matilda is a mere seven or so years old but is firmly established as a classic British musical in its own right, and upon witnessing a thunderous reception for this knockout touring cast of grown-ups and children, it's easy to see why...Powerful, funny and beautifully musical, it reminds us who we are, and who we might be. It would also appear from the smiles of every theatregoer leaving the building, we are more or less the same.”
Andy PlaiceRead review
The Stage (UK)
“Warchus’ peerless production...is spectacularly staged. It feels both intimate and larger-than-life as we see the world through the unique prism of the older-than-her-years Matilda, a voracious reader and loner who is neglected by her parents...The expertly drilled cast of youngsters playing Matilda’s friends are playful and bring an infectious sense of fun and jeopardy to a show that is full of both qualities.”
Mark ShentonRead review
The Arts Desk
“How they get such performances from such youngsters is the RSC’s own miracle. Mind you, they’ve got form on their side: Les Misérables anyone? Matilda might just have similar legs.”
Carole WoddisRead review
London Theatre
“So, I would not go quite as far as my neighbour in describing it as 'brilliant', but Matilda the Musical is nevertheless hugely enjoyable and cracking Christmas fun.”
Peter BrownRead review

Cast & creatives

About Cambridge Theatre

The Cambridge Theatre is one of London’s most distinctive West End venues. Located in the vibrant Seven Dials district, this Grade II listed theatre is known for its striking Art Deco design, featuring bronze friezes by Anthony Gibbons Grinling and a circular entrance foyer that sets the tone for a stylish night out. Its clean lines and elegant interiors make it one of the most architecturally unique spaces in the West End.

A favourite for musical theatre lovers, the Cambridge Theatre London is currently home to the Olivier Award-winning Matilda the Musical. With its intimate yet grand setting, the Cambridge Theatre offers a compelling blend of historic charm and contemporary West End energy — the perfect destination for an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Cambridge Theatre is a prime destination for those seeking London's acclaimed performances, from captivating musicals to gripping plays. Delve into the vibrant scene of the West End, where you can find some of the best theatre shows. No matter your budget, discover cheap West End tickets and immerse yourself in the rich palette of shows in London tonight, ensuring a memorable cultural experience in the heart of the city.

The History of Cambridge Theatre

The Cambridge Theatre opened in 1930, designed by Wimperis, Simpson and Guthrie, with interiors by Serge Chermayeff. Its modernist elegance and steel-framed construction made it a standout from the start. After being redecorated in the 1950s and again in 1987 to restore its original Art Deco glory, the venue has remained a striking presence in the West End. Over the decades, the Cambridge Theatre London has hosted a string of iconic productions, from Half a Sixpence and Chicago to Return to the Forbidden Planet. These legendary runs have helped cement the Cambridge Theatre’s reputation as one of the capital’s most exciting stages.

Where is Cambridge Theatre?

The Cambridge Theatre is located in the heart of London’s West End, in the Seven Dials area of Covent Garden. The address is Earlham Street, London WC2H 9HU. It’s a short walk from Covent Garden and Leicester Square, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and landmarks such as the Royal Opera House and Neal’s Yard.

Travelling to the theatre is simple via public transport. The area is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to enjoy a meal or drink nearby before or after your show at the Cambridge Theatre.

Cambridge Theatre nearest tube

The Cambridge Theatre nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line) and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines), both just a 4–6 minute walk away. From Covent Garden station, head south down Neal Street, then turn right onto Earlham Street. From Leicester Square, walk up Charing Cross Road and turn right onto Shaftesbury Avenue and into Seven Dials.

Cambridge Theatre nearest train station

The nearest mainline train station is Charing Cross, around a 12-minute walk from the Cambridge Theatre. Upon exiting the station, walk up St Martin’s Lane and turn onto Earlham Street, following signs to Seven Dials. Alternatively, Tottenham Court Road station, which connects to the Elizabeth Line, is also within walking distance.

Buses to Cambridge Theatre

Day and night buses stopping near the Cambridge Theatre include routes 14, 19, 24, 29, 38, 176, and N29. The closest bus stops are on Charing Cross Road and Shaftesbury Avenue. From there, follow signs to Seven Dials and you’ll find the theatre nestled on the corner of Earlham Street.

Cambridge Theatre Accessibility

The Cambridge Theatre offers step-free access to the foyer and accessible seating in the stalls. There are adapted toilets and wheelchair spaces available, as well as facilities for those with hearing impairments, including induction loops and captioned performances.

Cambridge Theatre Safety Policy

The Cambridge Theatre follows robust safety procedures to ensure the wellbeing of all guests. Bag checks are in place at the entrance, and large bags or suitcases may not be permitted. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for security screening.

Cambridge Theatre Dress Code

There is no formal dress code at the Cambridge Theatre. Most theatregoers wear smart-casual clothing, but you’re welcome to dress up for a special occasion. Whether you’re attending a matinee or an evening show, comfort is key — just avoid anything too informal like sportswear. Be sure to check out our dressing for the theatre guide to find out more.

Cambridge Theatre Notable Productions

Throughout its history, the Cambridge Theatre has hosted an array of memorable productions. These include Half a Sixpence with Tommy Steele, Little Me with Bruce Forsyth, and the original London run of Chicago. The Olivier Award-winning Return to the Forbidden Planet also found success here, running for nearly four years.

Cambridge Theatre Recent Productions

Recent decades have seen the Cambridge Theatre stage major hits such as Grease, Jerry Springer – The Opera, Our House, and The Beautiful Game. From jukebox musicals to original West End debuts, the theatre has remained at the forefront of contemporary theatre. Since 2011, it has been the proud home of Matilda The Musical.

Cambridge Theatre Seating Plan

The Cambridge Theatre has a seating capacity of around 1,200, spread across three levels: Stalls, Dress Circle, and Upper Circle. The layout offers excellent sightlines from most areas, with particularly immersive views available from the centre of the Stalls. The Dress Circle offers a panoramic perspective of the stage, while the Upper Circle is ideal for budget-conscious theatregoers without compromising too much on the Cambridge Theatre seat view.

The theatre’s compact design ensures an intimate experience from any section. There are dedicated wheelchair spaces and accessible seats in the Stalls, along with companion seating available on request. Be sure to read our guide to find out which are the best seats at the Cambridge Theatre.

Nearest tube: Covent Garden
Train: Charing Cross

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