Matilda

Hickory Ridge High School

Director: Ian Sullivan

Stage Manager: Shelby Young

Scenic Designer: Lily Chapman

Costume Designer: Jaz Matul

Lighting Design: Shelby Young

My Role in This Production

* Served as Assistant Stage Manager, Set Designer, and Run crew

* Designed and constructed the chalk mechanism

* Developed and created stencils for the letter blocks

* Painted and finished all letter block elements

* Operated and managed the chalkboard during performances

Nov 2023 - Feb 2024

Projects

CHALKBOARD

I designed a chalkboard framed by bookcases, with the board as the central storytelling element.

For Matilda’s telepathy, I engineered a magnet-based effect that allows the chalk to move invisibly, creating the illusion of mind control.

CIRCUS TENT

Using chorus boards, I created a double-sided unit that transforms library bookcases into circus drapery.

This transformation visually represents Matilda and the audience being pulled into Mrs. Phelps’s storytelling about the acrobat.

PROSCENIUM

The proscenium is wrapped in letter blocks to reflect the show’s iconic symbol. The floor is painted as a colorful play mat, reinforcing childhood imagery.

Colorful picture frames reflect how the children grow into adults and how their dreams shift over time.

WORMWOOD RESIDENCE

I kept the design intentionally minimal, featuring a vintage couch and a stylized box TV.

This simplicity reflects the Wormwoods’ narrow worldview and lack of curiosity beyond their immediate surroundings.

GYMNASIUM

I staged the gym as an obstacle course using yoga mats and stage boxes to emphasize Miss Trunchbull’s punishments.

Her desk is filled with athletic props so she can constantly reinforce her dominance and physicality.

SCHOOL

I use the chalkboard and surrounding bookcases as a constant visual anchor for the school setting.

Student desks are built from large and small stage boxes, creating varied levels that support flexible blocking and strong stage pictures.