Ahead of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Matilda the Musical opening at Mayflower Theatre from 29 April for a 3 week run, a gigantic Trunchbull chair has been installed in Westquay shopping centre.
The impressive Trunch Chair, which is 3.5 metres high, took four people to build following strict instructions left by Miss Trunchbull herself to ensure her highest standards were met.
Now, all maggots are invited to stand by the chair, located in the Level 2 focal space in Westquay, and strike their best Matilda pose before tagging @mayflower.theatre on socials.
Michael Nicholson, Destination Director at Westquay, said: “We’re so excited that that Westquay is displaying the ginormous Trunch ahead of Matilda The Musical returning to Southampton.
“Based on the book known and loved by many (and of course can be found in Waterstones), it is exciting to see the world of Crunchem Hall come to life in our shopping centre.
“Here at Westquay, we love collaborating with other local businesses and creative partners to provide a multi-purpose destination offering a real mix of entertainment, leisure and social experiences, and having these items on display is just one way we offer this.”
The display will be located at Westquay shopping centre until 3 May.
The highly acclaimed production of Matilda the Musical, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, is at Mayflower Theatre from 29 April to 17 May 2026.
This multi-award-winning musical tells the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.
Tickets for Matilda The Musical (Wednesday 29 April – Sunday 17 May 2026) are on sale at mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711811.
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