Matilda, A Musical - an absolute joy

This is one of the best shows I have ever seen. I've been going to Stratford for nearly 50 years and I can't remember a standing ovation like last night's when the audience rose as one in a long, emotion-packed cacophony of palm-burning applause.

This glorious, funny and strangely moving RSC musical, directed by Matthew Warchus, is based on Roald Dahl's tale of a sad, mistreated little girl getting her own back on nasty grown-ups.

But the real magic comes from the music and lyrics of the Australian comedian and composer Tim Minchin.

There are some fabulous song and dance numbers performed, thanks to child-employment rules, by three separate teams of children. For press night 11-year-old Kerry Ingram was Matilda, sometimes frail, sometimes feisty but always compelling.

Her chav parents, who despise book learning and hate Matilda, are perfectly played by Paul Kaye and Josie Walker. But among the adults it's Bertie Carvel who steals the show in a wildly energetic turn as the world's worst headmistress, Miss Trunchbull.

Matilda is at Stratford until January 30. But if you miss it here, you'll surely see it somewhere else because this great little show is destined for even greater things.

Last night we saw the birth of a musical to rank alongside Cats, Phantom of the Opera and Les Miserables. It was a privilege to be there.