Music and lyrics wrapped in rhythms of blues and jazz add additional sparkle to the production. Syncopated rhythms, dissonant chords and modulations complete the surrealness of the experience.
The music in "Seussical" is so universal and so thematically lyrical that Donny Osmond included two songs from the show, "Solla Sollew" and "It's Possible," on his 2001 "This Is the Moment" CD.
"The show just reminds you of how simple life can really be if we choose to make it so," said director Andra Thorne. "It's a show about decisions, consequences, thinking and having fun."
Thorne set the stage for the show against a stark white, geometric backdrop. The characters themselves are what add the color and dimension to the show, as is true of real life--it's the people who bring richness to the experience.
Multiple levels and lines and clock-work dance movement bring a rule-breaking feel to the show.
Kyle Ferrin as the Cat in the Hat is delightful. His over-the-edge antics are in harmony with what Seuss-oholics have come to expect. But the tenderness he lets go at the end is also redeeming and sweet.
Horton is played by Erik Gunn who takes the simple mindedness of his character and fleshes it out to release the strength needed to save a hatchling and the Who Universe.
Jacob Sommer as Jojo is firm in his resolve to live his life according to conscience and not as others expect.
Other cast members include Heidi LeBaron as Gertrude; Angela Allen as Mayzie; Kara Croft as the Sour Kangaroo and Olivia Stevens as the Young Kangaroo; Chase Thornock, Mike West and Kirk Stapley as the Wickersham Brothers; Jonah Fjelsted as General Gengis Khan Schmidtz and Will Passey as the Grinch.
The choral numbers richly embrace the vocals that surround audience mem- bers throughout the show.
Don't leave your seats too quickly at its conclusion. Just when you think it's over, it's not. "We also have a very special situation this year with Dun-can Howard in our cast," said Thorne. "He has severe cerebral palsy, is in a wheelchair and can communicate only with his eyes.
"He is awesome! He totally fits into a Seuss world because of his uniqueness. It's been an incredible experience to incorporate him and watch him work hard to do his part in the show. He hates to leave rehearsals."
"Seussical the Musical" plays Nov. 12-20 at 7 p.m. nightly, plus 2 p.m. matinees on Nov. 13, 20. Tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for students, $4 for children age 12 and under. Children of all ages are welcome and will enjoy the show. For more information, call 402-8800.
jhopkins@davisclipper.com
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