Wednesday, August 24, 2022

review - SEUSSICAL - Valley Youth Theatre

Jaden Roesch (center) and Cast
Photo by Bob Dolan

highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through August 28

"The idea to adapt the imaginary worlds of the Dr. Seuss children's books, which feature fantastical creatures, humorous situations, heartfelt life lessons, and clever rhyme schemes, into a Broadway musical seemed like a great plan for a family friendly show. While the initial 2000 Broadway run didn't last long, the musical has become a staple of regional and youth theatres. The current Valley Youth Theatre production has an exceptional cast with direction and creative designs that echo and evoke the meaningful situations, humorous words, and wild images of the Seuss books....The cast of talented teens and youngsters does a wonderful job bringing the well-known Seuss literary characters to life. With an impish wink in his eye, Jaden Roesch is playfully mischievous as the Cat in the Hat. Roesch exhibits a warm connection with the rest of the cast and delivers some high-flying acrobatic leaps and jumps as well. As Horton the Elephant, William Lovell is warm, lovable, compassionate and caring. Luca Grasso is wonderful as JoJo in one of the most professional portrayals from an actor of his age that I've seen in a youth production. The duet that he has with Lovell, "Alone in the Universe," is beautifully sung and exceptionally moving. With a bright singing voice and a sunny disposition, Olivia Fearey is charming and winning as Gertrude McFuzz....Director Bobb Cooper makes sure there is a sense of imagination and zany playfulness in the production, which are both major components of the Seuss books, without ever losing sight of the show's main theme–that everyone matters, no matter how small..."   -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

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