Children's Theatre of Annapolis will continue this weekend to bring Dr. Seuss' whimsical characters to life in an enchanting production of Seussical the Musical, playing at Anne Arundel Community College's Pascal Center for the Performing Arts.
The local version illustrates the Seussical success phenomenon that followed the somewhat disappointing 2001 Broadway run of the Stephen Flaherty/Lynn Ahrens' musical. In Children's Theatre's production, favorite Seuss characters thrive in a lively, innocent environment created by a mostly teenage cast.
This show ranks near the top of Children's Theatre offerings that I've seen in terms of matching talent to material. Seussical's plot and tuneful score sparkle in the hands of a talented artistic staff and cast.
Having wanted to direct this show since he first heard the music three years ago, director Bob Rude brings out magical facets of the musical by revealing cast members' talents that light up every song and scene. Cherished Seuss characters come to life with the production not losing sight of basic concepts such as being oneself, not needing to change physically, and maintaining faith in what can't be seen.
The challenging Flaherty/Ahrens score gets first-class treatment from music director Eileen Eaton and the live orchestra in the pit. Enormous credit is due co-choreographers Katy Schronce and Tiffany Shannon, who get the energetic cast to create dazzling dance numbers.
Acknowledgements of the artistic staff would not be complete without mentioning costume designer Julie Bays, whose imaginative, age-appropriate, wonderful costumes contribute to this production's overall excellence.
Rude's program notes say that Seussical includes "elements from 15 different Dr. Seuss stories, with all revolving around the two Horton the Elephant stories." In this musical journey, the Cat in the Hat guides us through the imaginary jungle of Nool, the Planet of Who, and Solla Sollew with stops in Palm Beach, New York City and Annapolis.
The children's cast of middle and high school students ages 12 to 18 worked hard to deliver a thoroughly professional production of challenging material. The players dance together with enthusiasm and athleticism and sing together to form a fine-sounding full chorus.
Among the major players, 17-year-old Ryan Connor is well-cast as the Cat in the Hat, bringing zest to the Cat's narration, displaying great versatility in his dancing and singing, and exhibiting a warm camaraderie with fellow actors and young audience members.
