Theatrical Review: Seussical The Musical

SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL
Created by: Stephen Flaherty Lynn Ahrens, and Eric Idle
Based on the works of Dr. Seuss
Directed by: Jason J. Zimmer*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented The Pocono Lively Arts* production of “Seussical The Musical” by Stephen Flaherty, Lynn Ahrens, and Eric Idle which is based upon the books written by Theodor Seuss Geisel aka Dr. Seuss. It has been well documented Theodor Seuss Geisel never wanted his literary works transcribed to any other media. The only exception was the animated version of “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” which directed by his trusted friend Chuck Jones and starred his equally trusted friend Boris Karloff. He in known to reiterate his disapproval of the idea of adapting his work to other mediums when other animated versions of his work came out during his lifetime. It wasn’t until his death that live action versions of his work like “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” and “The Cat in The Hat” were made until the wisdom of Theodor Seuss Geisel wishes became evident.

However, “Seussical The Musical” proves that, while Theodor Seuss Geisel may have been very perceptive about what is best suited for his work, he was not all knowing. Seussical The Musical does have some very good songs, some thoughtful themes, and (unlike the live film versions of his work) it rhymes. The Pocono Lively Arts’* production of “Seussical The Musical” was enjoyable with some interesting Sets, Choreography, and some outstanding acting by it’s sizable cast.

The play is about an Elephant named Horton (as portrayed by Matt Christie*) who finds a flower and hears a voice. Yet, this play is more than a retelling of “Horton Hears a Who” as it explores the lives of those who live in Whoville focusing on that of JoJo (as portrayed by Gabrielle Zichelli) whose life and her relation with The Cat in the Hat (as portrayed by Luke Ackerman) adds depth to the production and enhances Theodor Seuss Geisel work.

“Seussical The Musical” has two basic themes running throughout the play. One is the sense of the desire Horton has to loyally respect the rights of others no matter how small they’re perceived to be along with an almost contradictory desire of JoJo who, with the encouragement of the ever mocking Cat in the Hat, seeks to celebrate her individuality by embracing her fantasies and dreams. It would be prudent to mention The Cat in the Hat character serves an important reminder how a sense of mockery can be crucial to children in their development toward adulthood by guarding them against accepting whatever “truths” figures of authority conveys enabling them to determine what is really worthy of their serious consideration and what is simply BS to be discounted until something real comes along. However, during the course of the play, the audience discovers Horton’s sense of duty is more about who he is rather than how others are effected by his standards while JoJo’s desire to live her life according to her individualistic standards enhances the lives of all she encounters.

There are many great moments in the play but one of the greatest among them was the performance by 6th Grader Gabrielle Zichelli who portrayed JoJo at a level of ability which was beyond impressive. The remainder of the cast not already mentioned consisted of Kristen Stachina as Gertrude McFuzz, Erin Dent* at Sour Kangaroo, Michelle DiBella* as Mazie Bird, Jullian Primano, Katie Kaiser, and Anne Bragg as The Bird Girls, Collin B. Lalley, Joseph Ambrosia, and Amber Ziegenfus as The Wikersham Brothers, Tasitha Gilbert as Mrs. Mayor, Michael catrillo as Mr. Mayor, Ryan Groff* as General Gengus kahn Schmitz, Dan Eash* as The Grinch, Kaitlin Tackels* as Myrtle the Turtle, Steven Duryea* as Vlad Vladikoff (who also portrayed one of The Seuss Players), Rachel Ring, Alex Rodis, Alanna Dent (who also portrayed one of The Whos), Andrew Hendry (who also portrayed one of The Whos), Danielle Catrillo (who also portrayed one of The Whos), and Natalie Gilbert (who also portrayed one of The Whos) as The Seuss Players, Jasmine Ortiz as Cindy Loo Hoo, and Jessica Lederberger, Rebecca Anglemyer, Kasie Berkowitz*, Kayleigh Krautkremer, Emelia Chamberlain*, Mackenzie Maula, Savannah Sanchez, Liam Weiss, Molly Yosh*, Steven Burton, and Victoria Baldwin portrayed The Whos.

The Musical Orchestra consisted of Dr. Otis French and Charlie Cole (who also performed on the Piano) as Musical Directors, Chad Diehl on Bass, John Hebble on Guitar, Laura and Howard Housley on Trumpet, Harley Katcher and Joe Lynch on Trombone, Ashley Hacket, Jessica Bikel*, Marta Oberlin*, and Jessica Murphey* on Woodwinds, Chris Souza and Anne Ortoski* on Violin, Betsy Buzzelli-Clark* Viola, Mathew Smith on Cello, and Chris Powers on Percussion and Monique Aquilla on Aux. Percussion,

“Seussical The Musical” by Stephen Flaherty, Lynn Ahrens, and Eric Idle was Directed by Jason J. Zimmer* (who also designed the set with Seth Dean and costumes with Kathie Avery along with serving as one of the production‘s Musical Directors and Choreographers with Paula McCormick) while Heather Dean* served as the Production’s Manager and Bill Kelly* served as the Stage Manager. The Sound designer was Glenn Kern* while Scott DeSantis designed the Lighting with Devon Davis, Anthony Calderone, and Eric Dwyer* assisting. Numerous others were part of the set construction, stage crew, and other aspects ot the production. The house was managed by Theresa Woehrel*, and was ushered by Volunteers of The Pocono Lively Arts* and The Sherman Theatre*.

The Pocono Lively Arts* production of “Seussical The Musical” as performed at The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA proved to be a good theatrical experience filled with some thoughtful experiences and excellent acting. The only unfortunate aspect of this production is common among all Pocono Lively Arts* productions. It’s run is very brief and will soon come to an end November 23rd which will occur by the time most people will read this review. However, there may be time for some to catch the show as it is worthwhile as there may be something for you to be found no one else can find. Please contact The Sherman Theatre* at 570-420-2808 or visit their website for more information and to reserve your ticket. More information from The Pocono Lively Arts* can be gained on this and futures productions by visiting their website at www.poconolivelyarts.org.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.