Superstars of DFK Performing Arts Academy shon the stage of Market Place Theatre Armagh on Saturday evening (May 30) for the opening night of ‘Matilda JR; The Musical’!
The musical, which is running over three nights, see’s a completely different cast each night with over 80 children performing on show night.
The show, which returns this weekend (Saturday 6 and Sunday 7), will see two different casts take centre stage.
The three principal roles of the musical -Matilda, Miss Trunchbull, the Wormwoods — are performed by a completely different group of children each night across three performances.
And cast changes don’t stop at the headline roles!
Every scripted speaking line in the show was distributed across three casts, so that every child who wanted a speaking role has their chance to shine.
That was a deliberate decision rooted in DFK’s core commitment to inclusion, as explained by Narelle Height, Chair of DFK Performing Arts Academy:
“Growing up, I never had the opportunity to perform on stage. I built DFK over the past 26 years so that every child would have a place to shine, to grow in confidence, and to discover what they’re capable of.
DFK is an entirely voluntary organisation. Narelle and the full committee give their time without payment with DFK currently working towards achieving full charitable status. The academy holds Trinity College London accreditation and has been serving the Armagh and Dungannon communities for 26 years.
Narelle continues: “Every child who wanted a speaking role got one across our three performances. No child should stand at the back watching someone else get their moment.”
Saturday’s opening night was a full sell-out in the 395-seat Market Place Theatre. This weekend’s Sunday performances — a matinee and an evening show — are within a handful of seats of the same!
DFK is also a registered Spotlight agent and this year, two children from the DFK family have been cast in TV commercials — a remarkable achievement for a community academy of this kind!
DFK will be running an ‘All Stars Summer Scheme 2026’ with booking now opened. The summer scheme runs over a two-week period and is an inclusive performing arts programme for children aged 3 to 11, taking place at Ardmore, Armagh, from July 20-23 and July 27-30.
All abilities are welcome and every child finishes the summer scheme with a live ticketed showcase.
Places are limited and you can click here to make a booking.
