Michael Matus plays Grimaldi in The Astonishing Times of Timothy Cratchit, a new musical with book by Allan Knee (the writer of Hope Aria’s 2017 hit musical, Little Women), and music and lyrics by newcomer Andre Catrini.
Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, the musical is inspired by the characters of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, the story follows the plight of young Tim from the home of his benefactor, Ebenezer Scrooge, to the theatrical madness of the great comic, Giuseppe Grimaldi.
The Astonishing Times of Timothy Cratchit featuring Michael Matus is at Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre 22nd November – 29th December 2019.
You’re appearing in The Astonishing Times of Timothy Cratchit at Hope Mill Theatre, what can you tell us about it?
This is the best sequel to a classic story I’ve ever read. It has the charm and humour and richness of the novel, taking our favourite character and making him the hero of the story. It’s about Tim’s desire to grow up, take part in the world, fully exploring its possibilities. He has no concept of being held back by his crutch, or his uncle Scrooge, only an indomitable desire to start his life with a bang, which he does when he meets a troupe of circus performers.
What’s the most exciting thing about seeing such a twist on the Christmas Carol story take to the stage?
The most exciting thing about seeing this story on stage is watching our very English Dickensian London collide with the European passions of the circus people.
How would you describe the score of this new musical?
The music is wonderful. It has the energy and passion of a great contemporary musical as well as the innocence and charm of an old Victorian operetta.
Tell us about Grimaldi, what’s your favourite thing about this character?
I loved Grimaldi when I read him. He is both clown and father, he loves art in all its forms, he’s an ego maniac and a passionate friend, he has a wild gypsy spirit and he is insanely funny. Both ludicrous and dangerous and an inspiration to all who meet him.
What are you looking forward to most about working with director Jonathan O’Boyle?
I hear Jonathan is wonderfully inventive which is what this piece will fly with I think.
How have you been getting to know your fellow cast mates?
The cast on day 2 already had me in stitches, so I know they’ll be an awesome bunch. There’s a healthy mix of generosity and savage banter already.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to The Astonishing Times of Timothy Cratchit?
New Musicals are where it’s at! This is a fantastic bit of writing with brilliant music. It’s a Christmas Carol with a wild anarchic kick and you should be the first to witness the birth of this magnificent creature. More importantly, in this season of political chaos and social uncertainty, this piece will entertain, educate and inspire the young.
