Gearing up for Jefferson Local Schools’ production of “Seussical the Musical” are: (seated, from left) Nicole Evans as Gertrude McFuzz and Nick McGlothlin as Horton the Elephant; (back row) Hannah Messer as the Sour Kangaroo, Loraine Stone as Mayzie LaBird, Nathaniel Dersom as The Cat in the Hat, Wesley Miller as Mr. Mayor, and Jayden Davie as JoJo.
(Posted March 20, 2019)
By Kristy Zurbrick, Madison Editor
It’s modern, it’s whimsical, and it’s packed with positivity.
Jefferson Local Schools’ production of “Seussical the Musical” hits the West Jefferson High School stage for four performances March 28-30.
“There are multiple great messages in the show, including the idea that the way you are is the best version of you for the world,” said director Rachel Armas, “that every type of person is important…and to be grateful for all you have.”
In addition to the storyline, Armas chose “Seussical” as the district’s spring musical for the opportunities it offers student actors.
“It features medium to large parts for several people, so we can feature a larger number of talented students,” she explained. “It also lets the whole school community participate. We are excited to have students from the elementary, middle and high schools involved.”
Two students are splitting the duties of playing JoJo, the child whose imagination is responsible for all the characters that spring to life over the course of the story. Sixth-grader Alexa Bogenrife plays the part Thursday night and Saturday night. Seventh-grader Jayden Davie does the honors Friday night and Saturday afternoon.
Senior Nathaniel Dersom is putting his three years of high school drama experience to good use in the over-the-top comedic role of The Cat in the Hat.
Senior Nicole Evans displays her singing chops as Gertrude McFuzz, a bird who is unhappy with her appearance but learns to be content with who she is.
Junior Nicholas McGlothlin is taking center stage for the first time in a leading role, playing Horton, a super lovable, very sincere elephant.
Senior Loraine Stone is the flashy, fun Mayzie LaBird. Sophomore Wesley Miller and senior Ivie-Jean Nicholas play well together as Mr. Mayor and the first lady of Whoville.
For the production staff, Armas is joined by Jeff Gates, assistant director, Danielle Fredette, choreographer, and Jacob Boyer, rehearsal accompanist. This is the fourth show the team has produced together.
“We hope the community comes out and sees our awesomely talented students,” Armas said. “They are doing a great job. It’s just such a fun show to share with everybody.”
Show times are 6 p.m. March 28, 7 p.m. March 29, and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. March 30. Tickets for March 28 are $25 each, include dinner, and must be purchased ahead of time. Tickets for the other three shows are $5 for students, $10 for adults, and $15 for VIP seating with prime view. To order tickets, call (614) 879-7681, ext. 2300, or email westjeffdrama@gmail.com. Additionally, tickets to all but the dinner theater will be available at the door.
