WESTERLY — Phebe Poppins from Get Pippin! Creativity for All plans to host a “Dr. Seuss-inspired craft” in the lobby of the Granite Theatre before each performance of “Seussical Jr.,” which opens next week at the theater for an eight-show run.
The play, which features Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and everyone’s favorite Dr. Seuss characters, brings them all to life onstage in a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty.
Transporting audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. 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, according to Granite Artistic Director DiMattei, who also directs the show.
Although Horton faces ridicule, danger and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him, DiMattei said in an email. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant.
DiMattei also choreographs the Granite Theatre’s production of “Seussical Jr.,” which is musically directed by Alex Celico, with stage management by Erin Blake, additional choreography by Molly Gans-Pomerantz, assistant stage management by Sarah Cropley, lighting design by Julianne Manlove, and set design by Phebe Campsey and DiMattei.
— Nancy Burns-Fusaro
