Seussical Jr.: For All Thinkers of Thinks

Dr. Seuss’ works are fan-favorites that continue to be popular over many generations. His whimsical rhymes and fun made up words entertain both children and adults alike. On Saturday, Nov. 4, the Theatre and Dance’s Roundabout Children’s Theatre presented Seussical Jr. Seussical the Musical is a musical that is based on the works of Dr. Seuss. While there are many of Seuss’ characters in the musical, the main stories that are adapted are Horton Hears a Who and Horton Hatches the Egg. The musical is a journey, led by none other than Dr. Seuss’ Cat in the Hat, of fantastical thinks. The show is ultimately one of celebrating friendship and the importance of creativity. It makes a point to say that it’s okay to think differently from others and that everyone matters.

The performance that occurred in the Performing Arts Center is a shortened version of the musical to entertain and delight. The Theatre and Dance’s Roundabout Children’s Theatre is a program that travels to many local elementary schools to perform for the children. The program has had many successful shows in the past, including Junie B. Jones and James and the Giant Peach. The musical needed to be shortened in order to be able to be performed in schools during the school day. The program brings theatre to young school children and allows them to experience the amazing things theatre has to offer.

The show began with Gordon Duguid coming onto the stage to talk to the audience. He talked of the things that were about to be on stage and how there is an elephant that is going to be there. Duguid told the audience that “in order to see the elephant, you need to use your imagination.” The audience, and especially the children in the audience, loved this and it really got the audience excited. The show completely sold out and all seats were filled during the performance. The crowd was wild with laughter and applause when it was called for, and everyone seemed to have a blast. After the show, the cast came out to the front lobby. The audience got the opportunity to take pictures with the cast members and the many children there were very excited. The show was short but incredible. From the beautifully designed set to the talented cast, everything about this show was great. So many people worked hard on this show and the end product definitely reflected that.

“A person’s a person, no matter how small.” -Dr. Seuss, Horton Hears a Who, Seussical the Musical