The LCHS Musical Theatre Class will present "Seussical the Musical" tonight (Thursday) through Saturday, May 9, in the school auditorium. Performances are set to begin at 7:30 p.m. each evening. Pictured during dress rehearsal are: (kneeling, l-r) Kashade Andrews, Steven Morris, Tom Reed, (standing) Ashley Rivera, Garrett Matthews, Curry Hogan, and Billy McWhorter. Admission is $8. The LCHS Musical Theatre Department will present "Seussical the Musical" tonight (Thursday) through Saturday, May 9, in the school auditorium.

Performances are scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. each evening.

With music by Steven Flaherty and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, "Seussical the Musical" features characters from several of the much-loved children's stories written by Theodor Seuss Geisel, known to millions as Dr. Seuss.

In essence, the musical is the story of Horton, a kind, sensitive elephant, who hears voices from a speck of dust. The voices belong to "Whos," inhabitants of "Whoville," located on the "tiniest planet in the sky." Unfortunately, the planet, which is appropriately named "Who," is headed for disaster.

In addition to Horton, other characters are JoJo, a young boy whose imagination not only gets him into trouble but makes him a citizen of Who; Gertrude McFuzz, a rather plain-looking bird, who has a crush on Horton; and Mayzie LaBird, an ostentatious bird, who takes advantage of Horton's kindness.

As the story goes, JoJo believes in the Whos, and with the help of some of the other Seuss characters, he saves the small plant from destruction.

Cast in the leading roles are: Curry Colvin — The Cat in the Hat. Steven Morris — JoJo.

Zack Harris — Horton the Elephant.

Ashley Rivera — Gertrude McFuzz.

Amanda Broom — Mayzie LaBird.

Kashade Andrews — Sour Kangaroo.

Garrett Matthews — Mr. Mayor. Emily Wright — Mrs. Mayor. Tom Reed — General Schmitz. Billy McWhorter — The Grinch.

Other cast members are as follows:

Wickersham Brothers and Cadets — D.J. Tapley, Lee O'Neill, D.J. Bentley, Tyler Banks, Will Strickland, and Joshua Bessinger.

Bird Girls — Emily Diamond, Hannah Bryant, Chelsea Broom, Morgan Easter, and Allie Clark.

Whos — Christina Baker, Miranda Beale, Carrie Hine, Sara McCauley, Kerri Seymour, Edie Williams, Matessia Murray, Tabitha Rayner, Arianne White, and Billy McWhorter.

James Collins, Katherine Poss, Taylor Fernandes, and Brandon O'Neill are in charge of the lights, sound, and curtain.

The production is being directed by Randy Smith, with Carolee Hobbins serving as the musical director. Marlow Craig of the Augusta West Dance Studio is in charge of choreography.

According to Smith, "This musical deals with several concepts — acceptance, individuality, prejudice, war, selfishness, and selflessness — but more than anything, the show is about the joy of using one's imagination.

"The audience will notice that the costumes are simple for most characters and the inner stage is minimal in decoration. Like JoJo, who has a very vivid imagination, the cast hopes those present will use their own imagination to make this show a memorable experience. 'Oh, the "thinks" you can think when you wonder and dream!'"

In other comments, Smith said, "On behalf of myself, Mrs. Hobbins, and the musical theatre students, we would all like to especially thank Mrs. Darlene Mullen for her contribution to the production. While Mrs. Hobbins was on an extended medical leave of absence, Mrs. Mullen helped prepare the musical numbers and her efforts are greatly appreciated."

He also expressed his gratitude to the following for their assistance with the production: Sherry Morris; Costumes by Michele, located in Augusta; Katrina Kelly and the art students at LCHS; Donahue Wilson, maintenance director at LCHS, and staff; Jeanie Smith; Debra Deason; Dr. Bill Hobbins; and Spratlin Hardware & Building Supply.

Tickets for "Seussical the Musical" may be purchased at the door prior to each performance. The cost is $8 for adults and $4 for children four and under. LCHS Gold Cards will be honored for one performance only.

There is no reserved seating. Moreover, the auditorium doors will not open until 7 p.m.

Everyone is encouraged to come out and enjoy an evening of wonderful musical entertainment, just a little bit south of Broadway!