Meet Our Matilda

When Alexis Thompson steps onto the Paramount Theatre stage as Matilda in February, she will bring more than talent to the role. She will bring years of growth, a love of performing and the confidence she has developed as part of the ArtXecute family.

 Alexis’s journey with ArtXecute began when she and her mother spotted a flyer for The Lion King while picking up her cousin from the Boys & Girls Club. She auditioned, joined the production and has been performing ever since.

 Although she was nervous before her first performance, Alexis remembers feeling safe and supported.

 “The audience was really into it, and I loved that,” she said. “It was a great experience.”

 Since then, Alexis has played Simba in ArtXecute’s The Lion King and the title role in Annie. She has also appeared as the Queen of Hearts in her school’s production of Alice in Wonderland and as Mike Fink in a school production of Davy Crockett.

 Each role has helped Alexis grow, but ArtXecute has given her something that extends far beyond the stage.

 “ArtXecute has taught me to stand tall,” she said. “It has given me self-confidence, friends and good influences.”

 Becoming Matilda

 When Alexis first learned that ArtXecute would produce Matilda the Musical, she did not immediately picture herself in the title role. She originally considered auditioning for Nigel, but participating in ArtXecute’s summer theatre workshop changed her mind.

 To prepare for the audition, Alexis studied her sides, worked on the tone and mood of each scene and practiced performing with confidence—even while feeling nervous. After the audition, she found herself replaying parts of it in her mind, especially her performance of “Naughty.”

 When she learned she had been cast as Matilda, her reaction was immediate.

 “I was so surprised and excited,” she said. “I honestly was screaming in my head!”

 Alexis sees several similarities between herself and the extraordinary girl she will portray. Like Matilda, she loves books and math. She also relates to Matilda’s struggle to find her place despite the doubters and negative voices around her.

 That connection has helped Alexis understand one of the story’s most important lessons: young people are not powerless.

 “Young people can learn that even if an adult bullies, hurts or judges you, you can make a change—even if you’re little,” she said.

 Bringing Matilda to life will require focus, discipline and a great deal of memorization. Alexis knows that learning the character’s many lines will be one of her greatest challenges, but she already has the message she wants to bring to her portrayal: “No matter what, keep going.”

 She is especially excited to perform “Naughty,” “Revolting Children” and “Quiet.” The fast lyrics and emotional shift in “Quiet” make it one of her favorite moments in the show.

 Inspiring Other Young People

 For Alexis, performing is about more than acting, singing and dancing. It is a place where she can be herself, have fun and inspire others.

 She is particularly mindful of the young girls who will be watching her take the stage as Matilda.

 “I hope they gain courage and pride from my character,” she said, “and learn to stand up for themselves and others.”

 Her advice to other young people who love theatre but may be afraid to audition is simple: give it a try.

 “Don’t be nervous,” she said. “I know you’ll love it. Everyone is super kind, and you’ll be safe. I promise.”

 Offstage, Alexis enjoys reading manga, watching anime, dancing and listening to K-pop—although these days, her playlist also includes plenty of Matilda rehearsal tracks. She hopes theatre will remain part of her life for years to come, even as she pursues her dream of becoming a doctor.

 When Alexis steps onto the Paramount stage, she hopes the audience will do more than watch the story unfold.

 “I want the audience to be inspired and engaged with the play,” she said. “I want them to feel the music, have a great time and learn something.”

 We cannot wait for audiences to meet Alexis Thompson as ArtXecute’s Matilda.

 Matilda the Musical will be presented at the Paramount Theatre in Goldsboro February 5–7, 2027. Performances are Friday at 7 p.m.; Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are available at goldsboroparamount.com.

Alexis Thompson will take the Paramount Theatre stage as Matilda in ArtXecute’s production of Matilda the Musical, February 5–7, 2027.
Photo by Terrie Nelson