Seussical
Arts Theatre
Reviewed on Thursday 6th December 2012 (Press Performance)
Seussical is 80 minutes of outrageous family fun. The show is a perfect pantomime alternative and there are even a few jokes thrown in for the parents! The energy of the show is infectious and incredibly uplifting. Richard Evans' bright, colourful design is perfect for the West End premier of this classic children's story.
"Join The Cat in the Hat as he takes a journey into the fantastical, bombastical and songtastical world of Dr. Seuss. Meet Horton the Elephant, who discovers an entire small world floating by on a speck of dust. Floating out of control through the universe, this is the home of the Whos, including Jojo – a Who with 'thinks' that defy all description. Horton and Jojo have to find a way to save Who from a world of naysayers and dangers. But Horton faces another challenge... he’s been left alone to guard an abandoned egg, abandoned by non other than Mayzie La Bird. Caught between a dust speck and his incubating egg, Horton feels truly alone in the universe, but while he faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and ends up on trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him."
The cast give high energy performances. David Hunter shines as Horton the Elephant. Since David was a finalist on ITV's Superstar everyone has been itching to see him back in the West End and he certainly does not disappoint. Joe Morrow was tremendous as The Cat In The Hat. While his vocal talents were underwhelming his characterisation was spot on. Natalie Green was astounding as Sour Kangaroo. Her voice sent unexpected shivers down my spine. She is an extremely talented vocalist who clearly has a bright future ahead of her!
Seussical is full of catchy upbeat songs. However, there are a few too many ballads which become slightly repetitive and extremely irritating. The story is entertaining and very clever. As a children's show it is appealing and engaging without being patronising and in your face which is extremely impressive.
The family friendly performance schedule means there is no excuse not to see Seussical over this festive period. Seussical is a wonderful introduction to theatre for children as it is fast paced, light hearted and lots of fun. You will be left singing the songs for weeks!
Seussical runs at the Arts Theatre until Sunday 6th January 2013. Visit www.seussical-london.com for more information and to book tickets.
Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
Photo Credit: Darren Bell
Follow us on Twitter to keep up to date with all the latest theatre news, reviews and interviews: @West_End_Frame
No comments:
Post a Comment