Performing arts excellence at The Hamilton International School – Matilda Production

Our Matilda Jr. production was a success with four sold-out shows and over 1900 attendees. The performance showcased our students' talent and the importance of the Arts at our school.

Our Matilda Jr. production was a success with four sold-out shows and over 1900 attendees. The performance showcased our students' talent and the importance of the Arts at our school.

We are so proud of the Matilda Jr production that our school staged. With 4 sold out shows and over 1900 in attendance in the Hamilton Theatre, our students shined as they presented Matilda Jr, directed by our drama teacher, Carol Hughes and supported by Doha Players.

As a private international school in Doha, we celebrate Music, Arts and the Performing Arts at our school and we have one of the best theatres in Qatar. Our curriculum ensures that our students have the ability to embrace their creativity and develop their confidence through the Arts.

Read as our Musical Director and the lead of our production share their experiences.

“It’s been such an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity. As the Musical Director of the production, my role was to bring the music to life, to weave melodies into the fabric of our storytelling. Guiding our talented cast and crew through rehearsals was both a joy and a privilege, and seeing Roald Dahl’s beloved characters come to life on stage was truly magical.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience was the chance to contribute to the growth of our school’s arts program. Building a strong foundation for the arts is crucial, and I’m proud to have played a part in fostering creativity and collaboration among our students.

 Another highlight for me was witnessing the incredible professionalism and talent of our students. Their dedication and commitment to their roles were truly inspiring, and their performances surpassed all expectations.

 I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the Doha Players, specifically George and Vicky Coleman, for their dedication and commitment to making this production a success. Their passion and talent brought an extra layer of magic to our performance, and I’m endlessly thankful for their contributions. And a huge shoutout to the super mums from the Parent Council—Taryn Franke, Hilde-Mari Strydom, Rachel Senior and Dima Alaas—for their invaluable contribution to make the musical such a roaring success.

Thank you to everyone who supported us along the way, and here’s to many more magical moments in the world of theater! “

 – Carol Hughes, Musical Director

“I am so excited to share my experience of portraying Matilda in our school production!  This role has been such an incredible journey for me.

To be honest, when auditions for Matilda Jr. first came around, I was feeling pretty nervous. I’ve always loved theater, but I never saw myself as the lead role type. But with the encouragement of my friends and teachers, I decided to give it a shot.

Throughout rehearsals, I’ve watched myself grow in ways I never thought possible. My confidence has soared, and my passion for performing has never been stronger. And now, getting to step into Matilda’s shoes and bring her story to life on stage—it’s a dream come true.

Looking back on where I was last year, I can hardly believe how far I’ve come. I’m already itching to take on new challenges and work with even more amazing people next year. Maybe I’ll even find myself joining the Doha Players in future productions! But for now, I’m just soaking in every moment of this incredible journey.

To everyone who believed in me, supported me, and cheered me on along the way—thank you from the bottom of my heart. This experience has truly changed my life, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me next. “

 – Grace, Grade 7 student (Cast)