By Jessica Kennedy.
“Oh, the thinks you can think, when you think about Seuss!” Seussical- The Musical opened at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport this past January 26th. Directed and choreographed by Marquez Stewart, this light-hearted show is a whimsical addition to the Children’s Theater lineup, and is sure to inspire and entertain kids from 2 to 102!
The show opens with young Jojo, played by the effortlessly talented Makayla Connolly, as she stumbles upon a red and white striped hat. The Cat who owns that hat, the energetic and lively Jae Hughes, soon makes an appearance, and the stage is alive almost immediately with song and excitement! Theater goers will have a blast following Jojo from the jungle of Nool to Circus McGurkus, and McElligot’s Pool! Our main protagonist, Horton (the animated and endearing Evan Schultz), battles Sour Kangaroo and the Wickershams to save Whoville, all the while sitting on the Amazing Mayzie’s egg and blindly missing the affectionate gestures from his admirer, Gertrude McFuzz (the adorable and lovely Emily Brennan). This charming show is full of more Seuss references than you can count, and the songs will capture your heart and keep you smiling!
The small cast does a wonderful job keeping the energy high on stage! The characters are exaggerated in bright, colorful costumes, designed by Daniel Rodriguez, and their vocals, directed by Sam Kronenfeld, help to bring them even more to life. Suzanne Mason riffs impressively as Sour Kangaroo, and shows her vocal range by diving a few octaves for Baby Kangaroo’s vocals. Bobby Montaniz likewise impresses with his vibrant portrayals of Mr. Mayor of Whoville and a bothersome and menacing Wickersham. Jae Hughes as Cat in the Hat provides comedy and wit in almost every scene, and Marielle Greguski’s rendition of Mayzie is flamboyant and electrifying! Gertrude played so charmingly by Emily Brennan is a sweet addition to the plotline, and ties in another favorite Dr. Seuss character to the story. Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the world of Seuss all over again as they sing along with Cat and Jojo that, “It’s possible. Anything’s possible!”