Big Screen Adaptation of Matilda Musical May Start Shooting in 2016

Those revolting children could be heading the to big screen earlier than the previously reported 2019. Director Matthew Warchus is already in pre-production for the film adaptation of the hit musical Matilda. According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the movie will probably begin filming at the end of next year.

We already knew that Tony winner Dennis Kelly, who wrote the book for the tuner, had been tapped to adapt the show for the silver screen, but it had been thought that contract stipulations would prohibit any film version appearing within six years of the musical's opening on Broadway. The Royal Shakespeare Company production, helmed by Warchus, premiered in Stratford-upon-Avon in 2010 before transferring to the West End and winning seven Olivier Awards. The musical opened at the Great White Way's Shubert Theatre on April 11, 2013 and received four Tonys (in addition to honorary awards for its four original young stars).

Directed by Tony and Olivier winner Warchus, Matilda is the story of an extraordinary girl who dreams of a better life. Armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, Matilda dares to take a stand and change her destiny. Based on the beloved Roald Dahl novel of the same name, the musical also features music and lyrics by Tim Minchin.

The Broadway company currently includes Alison Luff as Miss Honey, Karen Aldridge as Mrs. Phelps, Matt Harrington as Mr. Wormwood, Lesli Margherita as Mrs. Wormwood, Christopher Sieber as Miss Trunchbull, along with Mattea Conforti, Rileigh McDonald, Mimi Ryder and Alexandra Vlachos sharing the title role.