‘Seussical’ hits NHS stage

Published 1:10 am Friday, April 15, 2011

The cast of “Seussical Jr., the Musical” at Northside High School features (top row, from left) Dustin Harris, Travis Ambrose, Kaitlin Williams; (middle row) Ariel Pinkham, Faith Hudnell, Erika Branch, Chelsea Boyd, (bottom row) Liza Paul, Hollice Brooks, Hayley Tinker, Amanda Wallace, Cecelia Robbins (Submitted Photo)

By TIFFANY LaBARGE

Special to the Daily News

Fans of Dr. Seuss will be exhilarated to know that “Seussical Jr., the Musical” will be performed by students in the Northside High School auditorium tonight and Saturday.

The show features various Dr. Seuss characters from 15 of his popular children’s books.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the curtain will rise at 7 p.m. Tickets, sold at the door, are $3 per student and $5 per adult.

The main story line is based on “Horton Hears a Who!” The musical is narrated by the legendary Cat in the Hat, portrayed by Cecelia Robbins. The musical uses catchy songs and humorous dialogue to tell the story of Horton, an elephant that discovers Whoville on a tiny speck of dust. He must save the town from all the jungle dangers while being laughed at by Jungle Citizens, Bird Girls, Sour Kangaroo and the Wickersham Brothers.

Cecelia Robbins will narrate as the Cat in the Hat in Northside High School’s presentation of “Seussical Jr., the Musical.” (Submitted photo)

Despite Horton’s predicament, he has one friend to stand beside him, Mayzie La Bird. The show, with all its colorful scenery and creative props, will seize the attention of both young and old in the audience, making them feel as if they, too, are part of the adventure. Not only is “Seussical Jr.” perfect for little children, but it’s also great enjoyment for the whole family.

Northside’s musical is being directed by Ashley Khuns, who handles casting and music as well.

“Each character in the cast fits the students own character very well,” Khuns said. “They portray their character through their own daily lives. This has caused most of the success of the production. This may be one of the best Northside has ever seen.”

Co-directing with Khuns is Northside dance instructor Tabitha Oliver, who is known for her choreography of Steppin’ Out routines. Oliver also handles scenery and dances in the musical.

Nancy LaBarge is the backstage manager who handles everything from curtains to props to staging.

For more information, contact Ashley Khuns of Northside High School at 252-943-6341.