The Lincoln High School Musical Theater will present the musical, Seussical tonight-March 30th in the high school auditorium. Under the direction of Rick Hudson, this musical is based on the Dr. Seuss storybook series.
Today’s review is part three in a three-part series about Seussical. Previous stories featured cast Q&As.
Lincoln High School’s production of Seussical is definitely one you don’t want to miss.
I knew I’d be entertained by Lincoln Stage regulars Eric Woodend, Noah Rhodes, Peyton Confer, Calista Poole, and Chase Ramsey who always grace that stage with their acting abilities, but some of the new comers proved to be just as talented.
Seussical the Musical is a delightful and imaginative celebration of the stories and characters created by Dr. Seuss. The musical intertwines several of his beloved tales, blending them into a vibrant narrative that explores themes of courage, friendship, and the power of believing in the impossible. The show is narrated by the mischievous and ever-present Cat in the Hat, who guides the audience through a world filled with fantastical creatures, colorful settings, and catchy tunes. Cat in the Hat is played by Eric Woodend, whose versatility and stage presence are obvious in this show. Woodend, an 11th grader, interacts with his cast in a brilliant way to bring the Dr. Seuss stories alive. At the center of the story is Horton the Elephant, a gentle and caring character who discovers a tiny world of people living on a speck of dust. Despite the ridicule and disbelief of his friends in the jungle, Horton is determined to protect the Whos, even when his own safety is threatened. Horton the Elephant is played by Noah Rhodes, who has been on the Lincoln Stage for years entertaining audiences. I love Horton’s floppy ears. They are simply adorable. But it’s his empathy and care for even the smallest creatures that makes him so relatable to the audience. Rhodes portrays this character flawlessly. It makes you want to give Horton a big ole hug!
As the plot unfolds, Horton faces numerous challenges, from his fellow animals’ skepticism to the chaotic antics of the Cat in the Hat. Alongside Horton, the musical features a host of other memorable Seuss characters. Gertrude McFuzz, a bird who is self-conscious about her one feather, finds courage and confidence with the help of Horton’s unwavering kindness. Peyton Confer plays Gertrude McFuzz and truly brings the character to life. Her voice, her expressions, her feathers are all fabulous. The whimsical and lovable Whos—particularly the young JoJo—play a crucial role in helping Horton stay true to his promise. JoJo, a young boy with a vivid imagination, faces pressure to conform, but ultimately learns the importance of individuality and the strength in embracing one’s dreams. Newcomer Anna Elder simply slays the role of JoJo. As a seventh grader, Elder holds her own among her older peers and at times steals the show. Her voice is so pure and beautiful. And lucky for us, she has many years ahead of her on that Lincoln Stage. And Mr. Mayor and Mrs. Mayor played by Chase Ramsey and Calista Poole simply don’t understand JoJo, but Ramsey and Poole bring their experience and acting chops to the lead of the colorful Whos.
The leads are also supported by amazing talent including Paige Moffatt who plays Mayzie LaBird, a vain and vivacious antagonist. Moffatt, in her red dress, and lovely voice nails the role. Then there is newcomer to the stage and senior Ray Heitzenrater who plays General Genghis Kahn Schmitz. Heitzenrater demands attention as a general. Wait until you see his “military uniform.”
The narrative weaves these various characters and storylines together through playful and imaginative song-and-dance numbers. Themes of hope, perseverance, and standing up for what’s right resonate throughout, culminating in the powerful message that “a person’s a person, no matter how small.” The musical also touches on the power of believing in the impossible, encouraging both children and adults alike to embrace their uniqueness and have the courage to make a difference, no matter how small or big the task may seem. Through its dynamic mix of humor, heart, and Seuss’s trademark whimsy, Seussical delivers an unforgettable and heartwarming experience for all ages.
I’d be slighting the production if I didn’t mention the amazing costumes, colorful sets, and the amazing ensemble and kids chorus that are truly at the heart of the show.
Be sure to catch Seussical and enjoy a little nostalgia from your childhood. You won’t be sorry!
Complete Cast List
Leads:
- Eric Woodend – Cat in the Hat
- Noah Rhodes – Horton the Elephant
- Peyton Confer – Gertrude McFuzz
- Anna Elder – Jojo
Supporting:
- Paige Moffatt – Mayzie LaBird
- Jaiden Cress – The Sour Kangaroo
- Chase Ramsey – Mr. Mayor
- Calista Poole – Mrs. Mayor
Featured:
- Ray Heitzenrater – General Genghis Kahn Schmitz
- Isaac Smith – Wickersham Brother
- Nicholas Genova – Wickersham Brother
- Jacob Evans – Wickersham Brother
- Lila Fox – Bird Girl
- Brooke Van Horn – Bird Girl
- Lilah Sturgeon – Bird Girl
- Landon Dombeck – Vlad Vladikoff, Yurtle the Turtle
Ensemble:
Eden Bungar, Della Hall, Jordyn Haswell, Ellery Hooker, Addyson Karis, Zoey Leech, Dalaney Leech, Lily Marthens, Claire Pander, Ava Rape, Morgan Ritter, Arianna Salvucci, Caylee Sammons, Lily Simpson, LenaRose Smith, Virginia Smith, Tessa Thomas, Keegan Twentier, Sofia Weisz, Makenna Woloszyn
Kid Chorus:
Scarlett Almquist, Tesla Brady, Lea Brenneman, Aubrey Edwards, Emmie Elder, Jeff Frye, Sophia Gatto, Amelia Giancola, Junell Goehring, Lillian Gordon, Dottie Griffith, McKinley Hoellein, Lena Ierino, Daphne Kincaid, Alivia Kuny, Evelyn Marshall, Adelina McClintick, Aliyah Schriner, Myla Simeoni, Kendalyn Stetler, Avah Thomas, Isabella Vazquez-Cosme, Hailey Venezie
DATES & TIMES
- Tonight-MARCH 28-7:30 p.m.
- Saturday-MARCH 29-7:30 p.m.
- Sunday-MARCH 30-2:00 p.m. *MATINEE
There are 2 ways to get tickets. They are available for $12 at: https://cur8.com/22609/project/129146. You can also purchase them right at the door. Lincoln High School is located at 501 Crescent Avenue, Ellwood City, PA 16117. If you have questions, you can contact the producer CAMANIN COLEMAN at camanincoleman@gmail.com
Seussical is presented through special arrangement with MUSICAL THEATRE INTERNATIONAL.
Congrats to the complete cast of the show and especially my cousins Rick Hudson and Camaninan Coleman as well!!