He’s a One of a Kind: the Grinch

James Schultz as the Grinch (center) and the touring company of DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL. Photo credit: Jeremy Daniel.

A review of Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical

by Benjamin Earnest, age 13

We all know and love Dr. Seuss’ classic picture book How The Grinch Stole Christmas!, but did you know that it has been turned into a musical? You are in for a treat with the national tour of Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, hosted by the Marcus Performing Arts Center. This production incorporates music to convey this story, beginning with the opening number called "Who Likes Christmas," which first introduces the Citizens of Whoville as these open-minded, large-spirited people who we are bound to find a connection with later on in the show. This critique will showcase the great work of the pit, the special effects, and the work of the young actors.

First I would like to acknowledge the work of the orchestra in the pit, which many critics may not notice at first glance. The music director and also the conductor, Andrew David Sotomayor, kept both the upbeat and ballad songs in balance with the singers and the musicians, to keep the show running at a steady pace for the viewers to enjoy overall. The brass and percussion make the dramatic suspense stand out, while the reeds/woodwinds calm the mood on the stage with songs like "Santa for a Day" and "Now’s the Time."  If it wasn't for the wonderful pit, the musical wouldn’t have the engaging music that we all go to the theater for.

The set, designed by John Lee Beatty, was like the book’s illustrations popped onto the stage. Also, along the way, the show uses unique special effects, like lights randomly turning on and the use of snow, to showcase the actions of certain characters. The wreaths on the front curtain are used to draw the audience’s interest towards the stage. This also invites a more immersive experience by showing us the true character of each and everyone.

This show brings a whole new level to the use of color in musicals by adding layers and layers of color to make the characters stand out in joyful and jolly ways. The costume designer (Robert Morgan) did a spectacular job with all of the costumes, making them bright like the Whoville Citizens’ personalities. The Grinch’s signature costume and both Old and Young Max’s look different to convey the message that they are unlike the other characters, with different personalities. Another way that he makes the characters themselves is by using Dr. Seuss’ style of making the unordinary look ordinary in his own way. 

Now let us put our attention toward these young but mighty actresses who play Cindy Lou Who and Annie Who (Emma Rose Marinoff and Stormie Piper Treviño). These two young performers have enormous talent for children their age and both of the actresses find the energy that their characters need to bring to the stage. In Cindy’s solo towards the Grinch (“Santa for a Day”), she nailed these notes. The emotion and excitement that Emma brings to the stage have amazing energy.

In conclusion, I think that this is a fun family Seuss adventure for every age range. This musical brings the illustrated picture of a solid show that you would want to go see during Christmas and start introducing theatre to friends and family. Go see more national tours at the Marcus Performing Arts Center!