Review: HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS: THE MUSICAL Gets Orlando into the Christmas Spirit
By: Danielle Ashley Dec. 09, 2015
The Walt Disney Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts has been transformed into Whoville this week as it welcomed Dr. Seuss' HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS: THE MUSICAL to the Orlando area. The Whos had no problem spreading Christmas cheer and reminding audience members that the holiday is just around the corner.
If you're a fan of the classic tale of the Grinch as seen in Dr. Seuss' book rather than the live-action film, then this lively musical is definitely for you. From the storybook scenery to the nostalgic end rhyme, young and old alike can enjoy the show.
One thing this show does not lack is energy. After the peaceful yet sad introduction by Old Max the narrator (played by Bob Lauder), the audience is immediately woken up by the Citizens of Whoville in "Who Likes Christmas?" and later on in slightly-annoying-yet-enjoyable "What Cha Ma Who." To be honest, it was hard not to clap after the big numbers, say "aww" at Cindy Lou's innocence (Rachel Katzke/Genny Gagnon alternating), and laugh at the Grinch's well-placed one-liners.
Speaking of the Grinch, Stefan Karl is simply perfect and hilarious in this role. The kids in the audience were immediately drawn to him, parents could relate to his cries in the earlier mentioned "What Cha Ma Who," and teens let out a laugh when he said "#GRINCH!" How he makes his unbelievable energy last the entire show (which is 90-minutes long with no intermission), especially after his show-stopping number "One of a Kind," I'll never know.
John Lee Beatty's set design combined with Robert Morgan's costumes make audiences feel like they've stepped into Seuss' book. In an interview with BWW's Matt Tamanini, director Matt August mentions that, 'With the extraordinary scenery of John Lee Beatty, and the beautiful lighting of Pat Collins, recreated by Charlie Morrison, and these wonderfully frivolous, zany costumes by Bob Morgan that really try to emulate the shapes of the Whos, (we) bring that very specific universe to life.' And that they did. The lighting juxtaposition between the Grinch's home and Whoville was well thought out, including the theatre magic of the Grinch and Max flying down to Whoville in his sleigh.
After a standing ovation during curtain call, mumurs of "That was fun!" and "That was cute" echoed from both children and adults alike. If you weren't in the Christmas spirit before entering the theater, then you sure were after the final curtain went down.
Photos courtesy of paparazzibyappointment.com
Dr. Seuss' HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS: THE MUSICAL will be in Orlando through December 13 with tickets available here. For more information about the show, visit www.grinchmusical.com.
Did you see the show yet? Were you filled with Christmas cheer? Let me know in the comments below!
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