Jay County Civic Theatre
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by Lynn Ahrens (lyrics and book) Stephen Flaherty (music and book) and Eric Idle July 13-16, 2006 |
YOPPing Good "Seussical the Musical"
(A Review by RKB)
Jay County Civic Theatre presented
a Performance Company production of
the out-of-this-world family fare, "Seussical the Musical"
for five performances July 13-16, 2006.
First-time director Shanna Camacho somehow managed a virtual
circus to craft a fast-paced, exciting, and entertaining
show. The vibrant and creative set was designed by Andre
Whetstone, who with Broguen Whetstone, Vickie Kibellus,
Laurie Loyd, and Priscilla McFarland designed equally colorful
and "Seuss-like" costumes. A special shout-out should go to
Broguen Whetstone for her costume and make-up work
and to Margaret Hammond for her always flawless piano accompaniment.
The stellar cast included Brittney Kirtley as the wildly wacky,
slightly obnoxious (but always fun!) Cat in the Hat,
our host in this new world. Young Brian Eldridge as JoJo
increased his stage experience by flowing easily
between the fantasy and drama. Horton the Elephant, played
with wide-eyed innocence by Todd McCowan, was a joy to watch as he
insisted he really did hear the Whos as he is hatching an egg
for lazy and self-centered (yet somehow likeable!) Mayzie, played
with just the right balance of charm and nerve by newcomer Lindsay Donadio.
Another newcomer, Jan Rittenhouse, brought the house down with her
charming portrayal of Horton's overlooked next-door neighbor
Gertrude McFuzz.
As the villains of the piece, stealing every scene
they appeared in, were Vickie Kibellus as The Sour Kangaroo,
and Dave Crump, Avery Loyd, and Sam Racster
as The Wickersham Brothers,
and Diane Whitenack as Yertle the Turtle.
Lastly, I have to mention Don Enyart and Lisa McShane
as Mr. and Mrs. Mayor of Whoville.
I just can't say enough about these two fine performers.
They both seem to strike gold no matter what roles they are given.
This time they perform comedy (as parents dealing with a son
who "thinks too many thinks"), drama (as their small planet is faced
with war and destruction), and tragedy (as they believe their son
has died in the war). I'm not ashamed to say their song about
losing their son brought a tear to my eye.
Here's hoping we get to hear much more
of their wonderful harmonies in the future.
The Seussical Homepage
Cast Photos
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