“Seussical- The Musical”

[rating=5] When it comes to Theater for Young Audiences, an introduction to live theater for our next generation, marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire shines among the best. They are leaders in bringing school groups, families and theater “newbies” out to see their one hour slick productions of shows that will teach our youngsters to adore live theater. Currently, they are doing “Seussical The Musical” ( book by Stephen Flaherty, who also wrote the music and Lynn Ahrens, who wrote the lyrics) based on the wonderful children’s stories of Dr. Seuss. Of course it wouldn’t be Seuss without The Cat In A Hat ( George Keating absolutely nails this role) who takes on this journey to help young JoJo ( the adorable Haley Noll) a Who bring back harmony on her planet. Horton ( deftly handled by Michael Aaron Linder) the elephant hears JoJo screaming for help ( this is “Horton Hears a Who”) and he gives his word that he will help them, because people are people, no matter how small.

This is a tight, highly energetic production directed and choreographed by Rachel Rockwell, who truly understands how to create a show for children ( of all ages) and her cast is just right- they sing, they dance, they communicate in an understandable way for the kids to understand. I try to bring my grandkids to these shows, not just for them to enjoy, but to get a different perspective to relate to you. Adam, who is six going on seven said that his favorite part was the Who. He liked them because they were little. His younger sister Sarah, who will be four on her next birthday liked the Soul Kangaroo ( Melody Betts, who truly makes the “soul” work)sooooooooooooo much because her voice was so good. I glance over to watch their reactions during the shows I take them to and I could see by their bright eyes that they were entranced in this production. So was I!

Rockwell put all the pieces together. Great costuming by Nancy Missimi, as always and a great array of props and set pieces by Sally Weiss are what keeps the kids in focus for the full hour of music and dance. It is theater kike this that teaches our youngsters that live theater is fun and enjoyment and people like Erica Mac,Summer Naomi Smart, Scott Alan Jones, Skyler Adams,Matt Raftery, Hollie Stauder and Tempe Thomas ( as the one feathered Gertrude, who adores Horton). this is a strong cast, well suited to teaching some valuable lessons to our young theater goers- Friendship,bravery,using one’s imagination, compassion and of course keeping one’s word. Get you family together and take a trip to Lincolnshire. “Seussical” will continue through December 31st. To check out show times ( mostly week days at 10 am, visit www.Marriotttheatre.com, where you can also purchase tickets at a mere $15 or you can call the box office 847-634-0200.

Marriott Theatre is located on Marriott Drive in Lincolnshire just south of Route 22/Half day Road and East of Milwaukee Ave/Rout 21 with loads of free parking- enjoy