Seussical Synopsis and Character Breakdown

Seussical Synopsis and Character Breakdown

Seussical is based on the works of Dr. Seuss and weaves together his most famous tales and characters from at least fifteen of his books. The show follows the adventures of Horton, an elephant who one day hears voices coming from a speck of dust. He soon discovers that within this tiny speck exists the smallest planet in the universe! On this tiny planet live a tiny race of creatures known as Whos. Although ridiculed by the other animals in the Jungle of Nool for believing in something he cannot see, Horton stubbornly persists in his belief that the Whos exist. Traveling everywhere from the Jungle of Nool to McEligott’s Pool, some of the characters fall in love, some have desperate adventures, and some even save the world.

Dr. Seuss believes in helping a friend, in not giving up, in keeping a promise. He believes in the value and dignity of others, in working to preserve the fragile sweetness of the natural world, and he believes that peace is the ultimate ideal, among nations and in every heart. He also believes in the pure power of imagination. You will find all these serious concerns at the heart of Seussical.

Note! Seussical is both vocally and physically demanding as it is almost entirely sung and danced throughout. There is very little “speaking”, and most of the lines and dialogue are sung.

CHARACTER BREAKDOWN

LEAD ROLES

Cat in the Hat – (M or F) The Cat is the spunky, fun-loving narrator of the show. The Cat leads Jojo into an adventurous world and serves as his guide. Singer/dancer. (Tenor or soprano)

Horton the Elephant – (M) A sweet and kind creature who tries to protect all of the Whos. Horton wants to help anyone and everyone, and is so caught up in trying to save the world that he is oblivious to the fact that Gertrude is in love with him. Singer. (Baritone)

Jojo – (M- but sometimes cast as F) A young boy from Whoville whose “thinks” often get him in trouble! He is creative, rebellious, and energetic. Singer/mover. (Tenor or Alto)

Gertrude McFuzz – (F) Adorable bird-girl who is in love with Horton. Gertrude is self-conscious of her one-feathered tail and longs to have a more elaborate and showy tail in order to impress Horton. Singer. (Soprano)

Mayzie LaBird – (F) Lively and energetic bird-girl who has the biggest tail of them all! She is sassy and bold, and is always on the go. Singer/dancer. (Mezzo – belt)

SUPPORTING ROLES

Sour Kangaroo – (F) She is loud, boisterous, and sassy! The other animals in the Jungle of Nool always listen to her, and she acts as their leader throughout the show. Singer. (Soprano – belt)

Bird Girls – (F) Three or more bird girls who hang out with Mayzie. They are colorful, fun, and energetic. Holding harmony a must. Singers/dancers. (all voice parts)

Wickersham Brothers/Sisters (M or F) Three monkeys in the Jungle of Nool. They are mischievous and like to create trouble. Many other animals are afraid of them. (All voice parts)

General Gengus Khan Schmitz – (M) The leader of the Army in Whoville. He is loud, commanding, and sometimes mean. (Baritone)

Mr. Mayor – (M) The mayor of Whoville, and Jojo’s father. He doesn’t know what to do with his son who disobeys him. (Tenor)

Mrs. Mayor – (F) The mayor’s wife, and Jojo’s mother. She is also struggling with what to do with her rebellious son. (Mezzo Soprano (Between Alto and Soprano))

Young Kangaroo – (F or M) The baby joey of the Sour Kangaroo. He/she often echoes what the Sour Kangaroo sings, and is a copycat. Singer. (Soprano or Tenor)

Thing 1 and Thing 2 - (F or M) Assistants to the Cat in the Hat. Uses body expressively. Non-speaking roles, but on stage frequently creating the show.

CAMEO ROLES

The Grinch – (M) As most people know, the Grinch is a grouch and he stole Christmas! Singer. (Bass-baritone)

Yertle the Turtle – (M or F) Yertle is a powerful member of the Jungle of Nool and respected by all the other animals. He/she serves as the judge when Horton is on trial. (Bass-baritone or Alto)

Vlad Vladikoff – (M or F) A majestic eagle who is also mischievous and daring. Strong dancer.

ENSEMBLES: There are two general ensembles, with further subgroups. All members of ensembles will sing in various group numbers.

I. Jungle of Nool (subgroups: Jungle Creatures, Fish).

II. Whoville (subgroups: Citizens of Who, Cadets)