SALT Performing Arts Center presents ‘Seussical Jr.’
“Seussical the Musical Jr.” runs from Feb. 17 to 26 at SALT Performing Arts in Chester Springs. Horton the Elephant (Jason Scansaroli), the Cat in the Hat (Nick Spallone) and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life on stage in “Seussical JR.,” a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. It’s brought to life by Director Beth McDonnell and her first-rate 18 and Under Cast.
Audiences of all ages will enjoy this tale, which highlights the tale of Horton the Elephant struggling to protect the Citizens of Whoville (Jared Drabick/Hope Myer, Mr. & Mrs. Mayor). Jojo (Jackson Odgen), the youngest of the Who’s, has an imaginary friend, the Cat in the Hat and together they create each “think” which drives this story to unbelievable heights, as a child’s imagination always does. None of Horton’s friends believe the Who’s exist, as Horton attempts to guard over their invisible world, which rests on a small clover. They taunt Horton and ultimately steal his clover, led by the Sour Kangaroo (Grace Storti) and her gang of Wickersham Monkeys. Honoring his friendship with Jojo searching for the lost Who’s, he remains steadfast to his belief in equality, “a person’s a person, no matter how small!”
His tale is far from over, as his unwavering loyalty and selflessness puts him the position to be the caretaker of Mayzie La Bird’s (Danielle Kucera) egg because she no longer wants the responsibly. No one champions Horton except his devoted nextdoor neighbor Gertrude (Sam Dobson), who learns as lesson about self-esteem along the way.
Ironically, Horton never notices the plain bird, despite her undying love for Horton. Even after being hunted, kidnapped, sold to a circus and withstanding a trial, Gertrude stands by Horton every step of the way. We can learn a lot about the perseverance of true love, the power of loneliness, and the bonds of friendship through this beautiful story that springs from a child’s imagination.
Penny Packer Florist of Phoenixville and Cookies By Design of Exton sponsor this fanciful production. Buy your tickets today at www. saltpa.com or call the box office at 610-703-1734