Young actor Quinn Newman to lead local Matilda production
Performances are scheduled July 31 through Aug. 9 in Templeton
– Wine Country Theatre will stage “Matilda” July 31 through Aug. 9 at the Templeton Performing Arts Center, with young actor Quinn Newman cast in the title role and coached by Broadway performer Gabriella Pizzolo.
Based on the novel by Roald Dahl, “Matilda” follows an extraordinary young girl whose intelligence, imagination, and courage help her overcome tremendous obstacles while inspiring those around her. The award-winning musical has become a favorite among audiences of all ages.
Pizzolo, who portrayed Matilda on Broadway in the award-winning production and also played Suzie in the Netflix series “Stranger Things,” has worked directly with Newman to prepare for the role.
“Working with Quinn on the material for Matilda has been such a wonderful process,” said Pizzolo. “It’s a difficult role to prepare, but Quinn is very talented, and I’m so excited to see what she brings to it. I’ve loved following along the same journey I remember beginning over 13 years ago.”
Newman recently appeared as Young Anna in PCPA’s production of “Frozen: The Broadway Musical” at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria and will reprise the role this summer at Solvang Festival Theater. Her credits also include national campaigns for Scotts Miracle-Gro, a role in the video game “Poppy Playtime,” and an upcoming feature film, the title of which has not yet been announced.
“What I love most about Matilda is that she never stops believing she can make a difference,” said Newman. “She’s brave, creative, and always stands up for what’s right. Getting the opportunity to bring one of my dream roles to life is very exciting.”
The production is directed by Doriana Sanchez, an Emmy Award-nominated director and choreographer known for her work on “Dancing with the Stars” and “The Voice.”
“Quinn Newman brings a remarkable level of professional performance quality to this role,” said Sanchez. “She is an extraordinarily gifted young artist — a true triple threat who can sing, dance, and act. The audience is in for a treat.”
Performances are scheduled July 31 through Aug. 9 at the Templeton Performing Arts Center. Tickets and additional information are available at https://my805tix.com/e/matilda.
