Bringing Dr. Seuss to life
In its first theatrical venture, the musical theatre class at Robert Bateman Secondary is bringing Dr. Seuss and many of his zany characters to life in Seussical for three shows next week at the Clarke Theatre in Mission.
"It's an up-tempo show, good for all ages," said stage director Ray Dencer.
The upbeat musical full of singing and dancing is based on Dr. Seuss' beloved classics, The Cat in the Hat, Horton Hears a Who and Horton Hatches the Egg.
Horton, the elephant, discovers JoJo and vows to protect her and the other Whos in Whoville who are living in danger and the story sets out on a crazy journey with many other Seussical characters.
Bateman students in grades 9-12 are putting on the entire show, including its actors, orchestra and all behind the scenes work.
Two students from Sandy Hill Elementary School are also taking part on stage.
Sharing the lead roles in the dual cast are Yujin Song and Kieran Kult as the Cat in the Hat; Max Kim as Horton; Brenna Kwon and Rebecca Bailey as JoJo; Aleena Bonk and Tori Hackett as Gertrude and Beccah Kult and Audrey Piper as Mayzie.
Patrick Schweers plays the Mayor, Beccah Kult and Audrey Piper share the role as Mrs. Mayor, Raychel Drader is Baby Kangaroo, Ally Kirkwood is Sour Kangaroo, Karmyn Chretien is Yertle the Turtle and Chris Ward is the Grinch.
Everyone, regardless of age is familiar with the characters of Seussical, which ran on Broadway for years explained Dencer, of the show's appeal.
"There's very bright colours and musical variety from rock 'n' roll to Latin to ballads. It's fast moving with very little downtime," added Dencer. With very few lines in the show, it's all about the music.
The show runs Feb. 28 and March 1 at 7 p.m. and March 2 at 2 p.m. at the Clarke Theatre, 33700 Prentis Ave., Mission. Tickets are $10 at the school or at the door. For more details, call the school at 604-864-0220.