Cast performs sneak peek of 'Matilda' at Elmhurst Library

Nine members of the BAMtheatre production of "Matilda" performed a 10-minute condensed version of the show Wednesday at Elmhurst Public Library as part of a community outreach program.

Portions of the cast have put together a "Matilda Story Hour" they take to libraries and other venues that includes "Matilda"-themed games and activities.

Cast members also made presentations last week at the DuPage Children's Museum in Naperville and Hinsdale Public Library and will perform at 4 p.m. Friday at the Barnes & Noble in Oakbrook Center.

Based on a 1988 children's book by the same name, "Matilda" is about a young girl with telekinesis who helps her teacher reclaim her life.

The full BAMtheatre production will take the stage at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 2-3, and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 3-4 at Nazareth Academy Auditorium, 1209 W. Ogden Ave., La Grange Park.

The managing director of BAMtheatre, Jena Sugai, said the group is not only trying to promote "Matilda," but also to connect with communities that may not be familiar with it.

"All of our programs and shows are based on our educational philosophy, so it's really about teaching kids not only about performance but also to give them tools they can use throughout the rest of their lives," she said.