By Lonnie the Theater Lady
“Seussical” is a mashup of several Dr. Seuss characters and books. The somewhat convoluted plot finds Horton (Nate Perrin) in the difficult position of keeping the Whos (teeny, tiny people who live on a speck of dust) out of harm’s way. Simultaneously, he is tasked with reluctantly guarding the egg that Mayzie (Laura Barletta) has abandoned. Tough duty for poor Horton!
The show opens with a splashy rendition of “Oh, All the Thinks You Can Think”. It introduces the audience to the entire company, including the Bird Girls—glitzy, sequin draped, Vegas style backup singers. Their melodious harmonies charm throughout the show. The very active cast often performs in the aisles of the theater, to the delight of the children in the audience. One of the many surprises includes an underwater scene featuring beautiful, lighted jellyfish, floating ethereally in the aisles.
The inspirational “It’s Possible” beautifully sung by Jojo (Piper Redford) might just be my next earworm!
The Cat in the Hat (Dixie Surewood) is the narrator/emcee. Her costume design (Patty Folmer) is spot on. (Perfect, as were all the vibrant costumes) This role gives her the chance to highlight her versatility as an actor.
Perrins sweetly shines and exposes his vulnerability in “Solla Solew,” a moving number.
Ivy Ferris plays Gertrude with a sweet, appealing innocence. Her rich, smooth voice is lovely. As is the lesson that she learns–outward appearance is less important than character.
Laura Barletta’s Mayzie is saucy, flamboyant, and sultry. Her vocals and comedy chops are a sheer delight.
Sour Kangaroo (Myriah Cross) is a vocal dynamo. She belts out every number as she claims ownership of that stage! Move over Jennifer Hudson!
Sarah Barbisch (director) skillfully wrangles and energizes the huge cast.
The clever, versatile, Suess-like, multi-level set (Rob James) rolls, folds, and glides seamlessly off and on the stage to create several different settings.
Garth Shafer’s colorful lighting design adds movement and excitement in several scenes.
This very entertaining show shares themes that can be understood by and that resonate with children. Friendship, loyalty, fighting for your beliefs, and expressing one’s individuality are all addressed. My favorite inspirational Horton quote is, “Don’t give up! I believe in you all. A person’s a person, no matter how small.” Another Horton quote, somewhat topical–“And, you very small persons will not have to die if you make yourselves heard! So come on, now and TRY.”
Seussical is an engaging aesthetic treat, chock full of pleasing vocals, catchy songs, explosive colors, and joy. A few words of wisdom are scattered throughout– an unexpected gift and a perfect pick me up for the winter doldrums.
Quoting Seuss, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.” So, steer yourself to Stage 62, and enjoy Seussical, and the Who!
-Lonnie
“Seussical the Musical” plays until February 16 at the Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall, 300 Beechwood Avenue, Carnegie, PA 15106. For more information, click here.
