Seussical the Musical Kids

Seussical the Musical Kids was the product of 35 kids, aged 7 to 14, who spent the first week of their school holidays creating this bright and fun production under the tutelage of director Brad Tudor, Musical Director Shanice Palfrey and Choreographer Allen Blachford. 

Tudor Theatricals runs a holiday program where the cast spend 5 days rehearsing a musical, before performing the finished product (twice) on the Saturday. The cast have clearly worked hard and their adult production team have prepared and guided well, as this delightful little show belies its short incubation period.

Very simply set, with streamers from above, the lighting, operated by Matthew Manning gave atmosphere, and the sound was well managed. Costumes were bright, funky and imaginative and the use of a basic costume for the ensemble, with added accessories, worked particularly well.

The performers were a delight, with lots of enthusiasm, energy and full voice. A wide range of experience in this group, with many treading the boards for the first time through to very accomplished young performers. Austin Matthews played catalyst character Jojo with lots of animation and gorgeous facial expression. Declan Cooper brought maturity to the complex role of Horton. Bethany Paton made a likeable Cat, who kept the pace crisp. Christie McGarrity was a beautifully sympathetic Gertrude McFuzz, who won the audience’s hearts.

There was lots to like with the inhabitants of the Jungle of Nool. Anjelina White was a spunky Mayzie Laird, Alice Herbert was a gorgeously bossy Sour Kangaroo, working very nicely with a bright Elizabeth Baker as Young Kangaroo. Lovely narration and characterisation from the Bird Girls (Isla Horton, Jordan Mears, Elizabeth Eppen Van Derr Aa, Ella Johnson, and Emily Corner) with good teamwork from the Wickersham Brothers (Alex Thomson, Lily Ripley, Bolton Fee and Jack Churchman). Olivia Payne did delightful double duty as a raucous Vlad Vladikoff and thoughtful Yertle the Turtle.

Charlotte Smith and Niamh Horton showed notable acting chops as Mr. and Mrs. Mayor, and were also whizzes on scooters. Things One and Two were nicely played by Tiah Bice and Sienna Clay. Great support came from a busy fourteen member ensemble.

Congratulations to this lovely, smiling young team. I look forward to seeing you all on stage again in the future.

Kimberley Shaw