Seussical the Musical

I was not familiar with this show although I love the 'Cat in the Hat' books, so this production was an anticipated pleasure that totally fulfilled its promise.  

As the action started, it was immediately clear that this production was very well planned and organised by the Director.  The young people were well rehearsed, all knowing what they should do and doing it very well, while getting on and off the stage efficiently. The choreography was very well set and danced, allowing the characters to maintain their individuality throughout.

The set was excellent, with the light boxes, rainbows that were revealed during the opening, central steps down and good decorations on the curtains and stage. The platform across the back of the stage allowed various actions to be slightly separate yet be clearly seen, while the steps off the stage were useful for the Whos.   

The costumes were lovely, with the colour coding of the groups of characters was most helpful! The addition of the tail to Gertrude was very well devised. Mayzie looked really good as a Brazilian while the Cat looked totally authentic.

The music was very well played and controlled.  I really liked the interaction between the Cat and the Conductor at the start of Act 2 - great fun!  The sound and lighting both added enormously to the impact of the show, with the nicely subtle lighting changes and unexpected sound effects.  The props were great - the Cat's chair with the propeller was excellent!  The cart for Horton was very good, while the court scene was most effective.

However, it was the commitment of the young people onstage that was most impressive.   The leads were all very well played, with the Cat nicely creating havoc at times, Horton showing his internal arguments and JoJo carrying a vital role very well. In fact, all the characters were so well created that it would be unfair to single any out, as they were all so good. This show had immense energy and a good sense of fun, while the performances were good, individual and engaging.  However, it was the teamwork demonstrated across the board that was most impressive.

This was a wonderful afternoon of entertainment, and I trust that the evening performance went just as well.  You are all to be congratulated on a first rate production! 

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