With dazzling effects, striking stage design, and familiar rhyming, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical brings the classic story to life while reminding us what the holiday season is truly about.
My family has loved The Grinch for many years – reading the book as a bedtime story, and watching the movies several times throughout the holidays. So, my daughter was delighted to watch Max, Cindy Lou Who, and The Grinch, on stage, in a vibrant, contemporary way. Her favorite part of the show was singing “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” at Max’s encouragement. Another element of audience participation was helping The Grinch say, “Merry Christmas.” These two words are terribly challenging for him to say before he finds the value of kindness in his heart, and the children in the Altria Theater audience couldn’t be happier to help him wish the Whos a Merry Christmas.
At 85 minutes, the show keeps a quick pace, while remaining true to Dr. Seuss’ original work. An older Max narrates the story, maintaining a rhythmic pattern to his speech, without following the book word for word. Thanks to the catchy musical numbers, like “One of a Kind,” and quick set changes; it is a grinch…I mean, cinch, to keep little ones engaged for the entirety of the show.
I should share that a friend asked if The Grinch’s character would scare her 4 year old. If you are concerned about this, you need not worry! The Grinch (Anthony Cataldo), while grouchy at the beginning, is silly, and not at all fear-inducing. I recommend this show for ages 4-99. Preschoolers will relate to Cindy Lou Who’s innocent nature and their parents will empathize with the need to teach children that “It’s the Thought that Counts.”
From Max pulling the sled in darkness, appearing to be almost floating, to The Grinch’s heart growing through his chest – every moment of the show is sprinkled with an unmatched level of vitality. There’s just SNOW way you would want to miss all the special effects! To be transported to the whimsical world of Whoville, buy your tickets online. The show runs December 12-17.
