Whenever Theodor Seuss Geisel (a.k.a. Dr. Seuss) was asked about why he had remained childless throughout his lifetime, he consistently responded, “You make ’em, and I’ll amuse ’em.” And amuse us, he did.
In the local production of “Seussical,” showing at the Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, the fun and playful world of Dr. Seuss comes to life. It’s based on more than 15 of the beloved Dr. Seuss classics including “The Cat in the Hat,” “Horton Hears a Who,” “Horton Sits on the Egg,” and “Oh, The Places You’ll Go.”
Join the mischievous Cat in the Hat as he narrates the story of Horton the Elephant and his colorful friends including the loud and sour kangaroo, amazing and harmonizing birds, and trouble-making monkeys as they embark on a magical journey from the Jungle of Nool. It’s all to help a young thinker named Jojo to bring harmony back to the tiny planet of Who.
At the end of the day, this show celebrates several different themes that are important life lessons for children. It’s a great opportunity to discuss with your children and spark some great conversations:
- Loyalty: “I meant what I said And I said what I meant, An elephant’s faithful, One hundred percent.”
- Friendship: “One small voice in the universe, one true friend in the universe, who believes in me.” He’s speaking for all the kids—big and small—who may need a friend when times are tough.
- Community: “A person’s a person, no matter how small.” There are so many instances that touch on this like when Jojo tries to find his way home and Horton the elephant sits on Mayzie’s large egg and watches over the Whos.
- Imagination: “It’s possible” and “If you open your mind, Oh, the thinks you will find, Lining up to get loose…”
The colorful costumes are complemented by whimsical songs and dances. However, the stage overall is bare. With very little reliance on elaborate sets and props. In fact, it elicits the audience to use their imaginations throughout the show.
The intimate stage is set up in four quadrants with aisles separating them where the characters enter and exit. This allows for an interactive and engaging experience filled with multicolored lights, bubbles, and audience participation! This show is completely geared towards children and the runtime is just one hour. But, don’t rush out too quickly, they save time in the end for Q&A. So, if your son or daughter is feeling brave, they can ask what’s on their mind! (We learned some interesting facts such as the number of days they were able to pull the show together!)
The ensemble fills this production with joy and whimsy, making it a delightful, colorful family-friendly spectacle. In true Dr. Seuss fashion, he would be thrilled.
If you go
Through March 31
Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr, Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Tickets: $18.23 with free parking
For more information, visit marriotttheatre.com.
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