OMS thespians to perform Seussical JR
BY SUSAN BRYANT
Dr. Seuss’ beloved characters The Cat in the Hat and Horton the Elephant will be coming to life onstage in Orefield Middle School’s musical “Seussical JR” March 3-5.
This musical is based on the books and characters of Dr. Seuss with music by Stephen Flaherty and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.
Seussical JR, narrated by a tall cat wearing a red and white stripped top hat and a red bow tie, tells the story of an animated elephant named Horton, who after finding a speck of dust floating in a jungle discovers the city of Whoville and its residents, the Whos.
Aadarshini Ramoju, who portrays the Cat in the Hat described her role.
“The Cat in the Hat is everybody’s best friend and everybody’s worst nightmare rolled into one character,” she said. “The Cat in the Hat makes a person think about life and appreciate all that is truly important.”
Ramoju said she likes that her character is eccentric, funny, and is actually able to talk to people in the audience.
She was asked what she likes about being in this show.
“Acting and singing allows me to express my creative side at school which complements my strong academic side,” she explained. “It is fun, and it allows me to enhance my singing to be the best I can be.
“I really enjoyed doing this, and I hope to continue doing musicals in the future. The stage crew is underrated.”
Brady Davidson, who plays Horton the Elephant, commented on his role.
“Horton The Elephant is the kind and dedicated soul that steps in and takes responsibility. He endures a good amount of ridicule, for believing in something that no one else does,” he said.
Davidson said he likes that he represents the good in all people, and that he does not really have to act when he plays Horton, because he considers himself to be a good person.
“Seussical JR” is directed by Lori Colacito with musical direction by Kate Pistone.
Sydney Sniezek is the choreographer/technician and Erich Joella is the producer.
Joella said Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, and all your favorite Dr. Seuss characters will spring to life onstage in “Seussical JR,” a fantastical musical extravaganza!
“Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must also guard an abandoned egg that’s been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird.
“Although Horton faces ridicule, danger and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family, and community are challenged and emerge triumphant!”
Joella comments on why he chose this musical.
“This is the first live musical in two years,” he said. “The show is fun and lighthearted and may be cast to incorporate a large number of students. There are over 50 students involved in the cast and the crew of this production of Seussical JR!”
The musical which is approximately 75-80 minutes including intermission is age appropriate for young children.
Orefield Middle School students will perform “Seussical JR” 7 p.m. March 3 and 4; and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. March 5 in the middle school auditorium, 2675 Route 309, Orefield.
Tickets are $7 and will be available for purchase at the door one hour before show time.
Doors open 30 minutes before each performance.