SEUSSICAL – THE MUSICAL Murray Bridge Players & Singers Murray Bridge Town Hall Until 21 May 2011 Review by Richard Manning I have been a fan of Dr Seuss books since I was very young, a disturbingly long time ago. I missed HillsMusical Theatre’s staging of “Seussical – the Musical” a few years back, so I came to see this productionwith a completely blank slate. No preconceptions about the show at all. Murray Bridge Players and Singers is an amateur theatre company with its roots firmly based in the localcommunity, running programs for school age children, teenagers as well as adults. This production of“Seussical – the Musical” showcases that very well with some very young cast members among thechorus, whom I might add do a remarkable job. They keep up their energy and concentration throughthe two hour performance and through numerous costume changes. Jesse Budel gives a solid performance as Horton the Elephant. His singing, a little tentative at firstimproves as he goes along, possibly showing some opening night nerves. Trent Baker as the Seussfavourite, The Cat in the Hat, brings a light comic hand and energy to the role, maintaining thatthroughout the show. He gives us the wonderful manic nature of The Cat that has made the characterso popular. Katelin Kneebone as JoJo/The Boy does a wonderful job for one so young in a lead role. Sheproduces believable emotions through the highs and lows of the show and good clear diction throughher dialogue and songs. Now we come to two standout performances. Amanda Hill as Gertrude McFuzz, the bird of minimal tailplumage who is smitten with Horton, has a clear and sweet voice. Her performance clearly showsGertrude’s commitment to Horton no matter what. In fact, her character is the only one who believesHorton really does hear a Who. Playing Mayzie Le Bird, Emma Harrison brings a strong voice and thesassy, irresponsible nature of the part. She nails her dance steps and is a pleasure to watch. General Gengis Khan Schmidt, played by Noel Kneebone, gives a notable performance in his briefappearances. In fact, he demonstrates something notably lacking in some of the other smaller roles.That is, he delivers his lines with commitment and without hesitation. The whole cast know their linesand cues but many were tentative in delivery on opening night. If I could offer some advice to the cast,you know your lines, so deliver them with confidence. The orchestra is small but effective and ably conducted by Jack Love, who also doubles as the Grinch.Balance between the orchestra and performers needs a little work from the sound crew, with theorchestra occasionally drowning out the singers. In fact lighting and sound were the two things that hadnotable problems on opening night. Primarily missed cues. The follower spot operators on the otherhand regularly missed their targets, leaving principals in the dark. So it comes down to this, did I enjoy the show? Yes I did! Director Kevin Schrapel delivers a show with asolid cast of principals, a good chorus showing disciplined performances from many very youngparticipants. The costuming is remarkable, given the challenges of creating the world of Seuss, and theset minimal, but effective. The show runs for two weeks and if you’re looking for an evening of fun with a message, make a datewith “Seussical – the Musical”. If you live in Adelaide, come on up to “the bridge”; remember it’s onlyforty-five minutes from the tollgate.