Santa Barbara Catholic School brings magic and might to ‘Matilda Jr.’

Santa Barbara Catholic School staged “Matilda Jr.”, an adaptation of the Roald Dahl classic. Photo by Ron Rocky Coloma

By Ron Rocky Coloma

Just moments before the curtain rose, Rhenae Cabuag stood backstage in costume, her heart pounding. She looked around and saw her classmates—transformed by wigs, hats and stage makeup—buzzing with energy. For Cabuag, who played the title role in “Matilda the Musical Jr.,” the sight was unforgettable.

“I felt a surge of excitement because I imagined what the show would look like on stage,” she said.

Santa Barbara Catholic School’s April production of “Matilda Jr.” became more than just a school musical.

Under the direction of Joyce Guevara and music director Tara Franquez, it turned into a community celebration of storytelling, resilience and youthful courage. The junior adaptation of the Roald Dahl classic offered students not only a platform for performance but also an opportunity for personal growth.

Sister Maria Rosario Gaite, SBCS principal, said the production aligned closely with the values the school strives to teach.

“At its heart, ‘Matilda’ is a story about courage, resilience and the power of standing up for what's right - themes that resonate with our students,” Gaite said.

She emphasized that the musical had become a yearly tradition cherished by students, families and alumni alike.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to hear people say, ‘I can’t believe that was a school production,’” she said. “It reflects the high standards we set and the passion our team pours into every detail.”

For students, the experience was just as meaningful behind the scenes as it was under the lights.

Ashley Douglas, who played the formidable Agatha Trunchbull, said she worked hard to embody a character so different from herself. She practiced Trunchbull’s posture and even slipped a British accent into her daily conversations.

“While annoying to others, it appeared in the person I was onstage,” Douglas said. Her most cherished memory came during the first dress technical rehearsal, when the cast helped one another navigate costume changes. “It showed a sense of kindness and camaraderie that brought us all closer together.”

Zariah Atalig, cast as the gentle Ms. Honey, said the role was her first time performing outside of choir. She rehearsed daily with help from friends and family.

“This experience taught me to be disciplined and diligent,” she said. “I had to quickly be on my feet and be ready to adapt.”

She added that she hoped the audience took away more than just entertainment.

“Being a kind teacher should also mean advocating for children with special talents and unique personalities not to be left behind,” Atalig said.

For Elleana Tesoro, who played Mr. Wormwood, the most memorable part wasn’t a line or a song, but the bond she formed with younger castmates.

“I was able to make friendships with them and be their ‘big sister,’” she said.

Francesca Rosales, who portrayed the flamboyant Mrs. Wormwood, remembered the final performance as the most special.

“We gave it our all, and that’s what made it memorable,” she said.

Jeremiah Perez, who juggled the roles of Bruce and Nigel, described the week leading up to opening night as his favorite part.

“It felt like a show day, just without the pressure of the audience,” he said.

He prepared by memorizing lines with help from a friend and studying the characters' personalities.

“Performing at this scale is something people think is easy,” Perez said. “Really, it requires brain power and hard work.”

Adrianna Derramas, who played Mrs. Phelps, highlighted a particularly expressive scene.

“I had to scream, pretend to blow my nose and even cry,” she said. “It was one of my favorite scenes to act in.”

From the cast’s youngest members to its most seasoned performers, each student brought something unique to the show. But for Cabuag, who played Matilda, the takeaway was simple and powerful.

“I hope the audience took away the message of bravery and courage to fight for what is right,” she said. “Even if you're little, you can do a lot.”