‘Oh, the thinks you can think’; Riverland theatre presents ‘Seussical,’ starting Friday
Published 8:53 am Thursday, April 20, 2017
- Kaye Perry and Max Larson, center, along with the rest of the cast rehearse the opening scene of “Seussical” at Frank W. Bridges Theatre. Photos by Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com
Have you ever heard a Who?
Have you visited the Jungle of Nool?
Have you seen a show at the Circus McGurkus?
If you answered no, then you’re in luck. Riverland Community College Theatre will present “Seussical,” a musical that brings many beloved Dr. Seuss characters to life.
Austin Hodnefield, playing Horton from “Horton Hears a Who,” rehearses a scene of “Seussical,” at Frank W. Bridges Theatre.
“The show has been around for almost a decade, but this is the first time it is being done at Riverland,” said RCC Theatre Director Lindsey Williams, who directed and choreographed the show.
“Seussical” contains music written by Stephen Flaherty with lyrics written by Lynn Ahrens. The show was co-conceived by Flaherty, Ahrens and Eric Idle of “Monty Python’s Flying Circus.”
According to Williams, the Cat in the Hat acts as the narrator/emcee for the show. Other character to appear include Horton the Elephant, Mayzie, Yertle the Turtle, the Grinch, Gertrude McFuzz, and the Whos.
All of the characters come from the imagination of a young boy, who later takes the name Jojo.
The cast of “Seussical,” rehearses the opening scene at Frank W. Bridges Theatre.
With 45 actors, the cast of “Seussical” is one of the largest of any show performed at Riverland Community College.
“It’s a wonderful mix of current students, Riverland Theatre alumni with many shows under their belts and brand new, young performers,” Williams said. “In fact, we had so many talented kids audition that I ended up double casting two of the lead roles because I couldn’t choose!”
Tickets to “Seussical” are $16 and currently on sale at www.riverland.edu/tickets. Tickets may also be purchased at the Riverland Box Office Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and one hour before the performance.
“Seussical” will be performed at 7 p.m. April 21, 22, 27, 28 and 29 and at 2 p.m. April 23 and 30. All shows will be performed at the Frank W. Bridges Theatre at Riverland.
“Seussical” is recommended for ages five and up.
“The show is a lot of fun,” Williams said. “We think of Dr. Seuss books as being for children, but it’s not only intended for kids. The show is every bit as entertaining for adults as it is for kids.”
