Danny DeVito, David Newman and the New Jersey Symphony give fans a treat with Matilda in Concert
On March 22, New Jersey native and entertainment legend Danny DeVito joined the New Jersey Symphony at State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick to narrate a special performance of the 1996 fantasy comedy film Matilda, with the film’s composer David Newman joining to conduct the performance. James C. Taylor of NJ Advance Media would be in attendance to review the performance.
Newman’s score performed by the skilled New Jersey players further elevated the event. The strings shined under concertmaster Brennan Sweet and the whole orchestra’s performance enhanced the screening experience. Matilda escape from Miss Trunchbull’s house had an almost Hitchcockian level of suspense thanks to Newman and the band ... Hearing the full score performed live reminded how essential music is to film. Newman’s soundtrack, while not as iconic as some classics, was rightly showcased as the expert score it is. Newman, DeVito and the New Jersey Symphony earned a standing ovation after the end credits. Before leaving the stage, DeVito yelled out one last thing to the New Brunswick crowd: “New Jersey!”
James C. Taylor of NJ Advance Media
» Read the full review from NJ Advance Media
New Jersey Stage would also review the performance, even speaking to some of the patrons that attended the concert.
The performance was extremely interactive and all-encompassing. Being able to hear the cellos’ pizzicato, the blare of the trumpets, and the oboes and clarinets playing right in front of you, was amazing ... When you watch a movie at home you hear the music in the background, but when it’s performed live it’s a completely different experience where you not only hear the music but feel it ... If you’re someone who loves Matilda as much as I do, sitting here in this amazing theater and experiencing the music and narration performed live was, honestly, transcendent!
Catherine from Tinton Falls to New Jersey Stage