Matilda extends in the West End, moves to 7pm weekday start time

The long-running West End musical Matilda, which runs at the Cambridge Theatre, will now start at 7pm rather than 7:30pm during weekdays, it has been announced, as the show extends its booking period until October 2019.

The production carried out a survey of audiences recently and found that the earlier start time was preferable for weekday performances. The new timings will start on 12 September 2018.

Reasons for an earlier start time given in the survey included the ability to socialise after the show, not having to rush back if commuting out of town, and also that parents wouldn't have to worry about babysitters staying as late if wanting a night out without children.

The show is written by Dennis Kelly, with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin, and direction by Matthew Warchus. The production is designed by Rob Howell, with choreography by Peter Darling, orchestrations, additional music and musical supervision by Christopher Nightingale, lighting by Hugh Vanstone, sound by Simon Baker and the special effects and illusions are by Paul Kieve.

The show is also currently on a UK and Ireland tour until August 2019.