'Think big and dream big': Weymouth students to stage 'Seussical' this weekend

WEYMOUTH – The Weymouth High Theater Company will present “Seussical," a musical comedy based on the many children's stories by Dr. Seuss.

"Seussical" is an inclusive show with a powerful message that "a person is a person, no matter how small," Donnie Norton, director of the Weymouth High Theater Company, said.

"We want to encourage the young people in the community to think big and dream big," he said.

"Suessical" will be performed at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 18 and 19, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20 at the Chapman Middle School, 1051 Commercial St. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and seniors.

The works of children’s author and cartoonist Theodor Seuss Geisel − famed for its catchy rhymes and colorful illustrations − will come to life during the performance, which takes inspiration from "Horton Hears a Who!," "Gertrude McFuzz" and "Horton Hatches the Egg." Those familiar with the works of Dr. Seuss will see characters including Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Mayzie La Bird and Jojo, a little boy with a big imagination.

"These kids are fantastic," Alex Norton said. "They all learn what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves. They learn what it takes to make moments happen for the community. "

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Student actor Alex Norton said the upbeat, positive messages of the show are contagious. "Seussical" focuses on themes including the power of kindness, friendship and imagination.

"In our show, we always make sure everybody is happy," Alex Norton said. “I feel like it’s a really good opportunity for the community to come together, make sure everybody is always light on their feet and having fun."

The production has a total of 89 students as cast members and behind-the-scenes crew.

"One kid gets to stand in the light and sing the song, but it takes 50 people working to make that one moment happen," Donnie Norton said.

At a recent dress rehearsal, cast members recited their favorite lines in the play and talked about what the musical means to them.

"A big message that I took from our show is, that before someone loves you, you need to be able to love yourself," student Vanessa Oreadi said.

The young thespians have been working for months to memorize not only lines, but also music and choreography. Despite the challenges, Student Brielle Griffin said getting on stage with a big production has been fun for her and her castmates.

"I’m really excited to perform on stage, " Griffin said. "I feel like this is a great way to show myself."

For tickets or more information, visit ticketstage.com/T/weymouthhs.

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This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Weymouth High Theater Company students to stage 'Seussical'