Theater Review: “Seussical” a delightful romp at Muhlenberg College
BY LANI GOINS
Special to The Press
Muhlenberg College’s Department of Theatre And Dance production of “Seussical,” through June 27, Baker Theatre, Trexler Pavilion for Theatre and Dance, is a delightful romp through the world of Dr. Seuss.
“Seussical” is based on the works of Dr. Seuss. The Book is by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. The music is by Stephen Flaherty and the lyrics are by Lynn Ahrens
The Muhlenberg production Director is James Peck. Music Director is Anthony Hahn. Choreographer is Noel Price-Bracey. Costume Designer is Rebecca Lustig.
The June 19 performance of the musical was seen for this review.
The set is simple but magical, making use of descending tubes, a sheer curtain and a mobile platform for Whoville to bring the magic to life. The Scenic Designer is You-Shin Chen
The scene with young Jojo in the tub with shimmering bubbles, and colorful plush fish mounted on sticks was a favorite.
The actors shone.
This Cat in the Hat, played by Sophia Wentz, is vivacious.
Katelen Estrada (JoJo), not much smaller than the Cat, played the imaginative young boy.
Dominick Borges (Horton the Elephant) used his arms for ears, and has a wonderful voice.
Joaquin Arce (Mr. Mayor) was exuberant and funny.
Josephine Glass (Mrs. Mayor) was a perfect complement to her spouse.
Rhyan Brogowski (Gertrude McFuzz) has a compelling voice.
Some of the finest acting was in the scene where absent mother Mayzie LaBird, played by Emma Gonsalves, encounters Horton and her egg at the circus. The brief longing looks that Gonsalves cast at the egg as she abandoned it again were pure gold.
The Sour Kangaroo was played in all her strident glory by Amaya Romero. The actress also played the Young Kangaroo via a puppet.
General Ghengis Kahn Schmitz, played by Caden Dowgin, was big and bold.
Samuel Beatty, Griffin Blackburn and Justice Tyler performed athletic feats as The Wickersham Brothers.
The rest of the cast played their supporting roles very well.
Another delight was near the end of intermission when the Cat in the Hat went into the audience to interact.
“Seussical,” 10 a.m., 7 p.m. June 18, 25; 7 p.m. June 19, 26; 2 p.m., 7 p.m. June 20, 27, Baker Theatre, Trexler Pavilion for Theatre and Dance, Muhlenberg College, 2400 Chew St., Allentown. 484-664-3333; https://muhlenberg.edu








