Imagine Theatre presents:
Seussical
Theatre Young Audiences (TYA)
is presented through special arrangement with Musical Theatre International (MTI)
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
www.MTIShows.com
Theatre Young Audiences (TYA)
is presented through special arrangement with Musical Theatre International (MTI)
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
www.MTIShows.com
About The Production (Artistic Team, Artistic Vision, Summary & Characters)
Show Summary
Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant.
What is Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) Mean?
TYA is the term used to describe edits to the script that are done specifically to enhance the performance experience for young audience members (youth). For Seussical TYA, this means a few songs/scenes were removed for sake of performance length. The estimated run time is 1.5hrs with intermission. TYA does not impact the caliber of the production, and just like with Seussical the show length is still on-par with other full length shows.
Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant.
What is Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) Mean?
TYA is the term used to describe edits to the script that are done specifically to enhance the performance experience for young audience members (youth). For Seussical TYA, this means a few songs/scenes were removed for sake of performance length. The estimated run time is 1.5hrs with intermission. TYA does not impact the caliber of the production, and just like with Seussical the show length is still on-par with other full length shows.
Artistic and Leadership Team
A Note About Artistic Direction For Seussical The Musical TYA.
"Seussical has become a timeless tale about the gift that keeps on giving: our endless imagination. In a time where the world is going a million miles an hour, and a child is struggling to connect to others, they will find the world can be engaged with in fantastic and colorful ways, with all "the thinks they can think" after finding a wacky hat owned by our favorite mischievous Cat. With the power of imagination, Jojo's world is limitless and anything is possible, even finding a deeper connection with the people who seem a million miles away." - Louis Kruse
- Director - Louis Kruse
- Choreographer - Heather Huson
- Music Director - Alec Martinez
- Tech Director - Dug Martell
- Production Coordinator: Kim Wallace
A Note About Artistic Direction For Seussical The Musical TYA.
"Seussical has become a timeless tale about the gift that keeps on giving: our endless imagination. In a time where the world is going a million miles an hour, and a child is struggling to connect to others, they will find the world can be engaged with in fantastic and colorful ways, with all "the thinks they can think" after finding a wacky hat owned by our favorite mischievous Cat. With the power of imagination, Jojo's world is limitless and anything is possible, even finding a deeper connection with the people who seem a million miles away." - Louis Kruse
Characters
THE CAT IN THE HAT -The essence of mischief, fun and imagination. The Cat stirs things up, causes trouble, but always sets things right again. Is the host and emcee of the evening, playing many comic minor parts throughout the story, sometimes improvising with the audience, and a presence in almost every scene. Strong singer with strong movement skills and comic ability. Baritone
HORTON THE ELEPHANT – An elephant and a citizen of the Jungle of Nool. Gentle, big-hearted, appealing. He is very imaginative and believes in the world’s goodness. He is responsible and always tries to do the right thing for his friends. Strong singer/actor with good comic timing. – Baritone
GERTRUDE McFUZZ – A bird and a citizen of the Jungle of Nool. Very self-conscious, shy, and nervous at first, she grows into a kind and caring protector. Is in love with Horton and does what she can to get his attention, including foolishly growing an enormous feathered tail. Strong singer/actor with good movement skills and comic timing. – Mezzo
JOJO – JoJo is a Who and is the only child of the mayor and his wife. A “Thinker”–a smart child with a wild imagination. A little bit awkward, a little bit of a loner, or simply a rambunctious kid whose ‘Thinks’ get him into constant trouble. – Alto
MAYZIE LA BIRD – A bird and a citizen of the Jungle of Nool. Self-centered, selfish and vain. She manipulates anyone she can (especially Horton) into doing what she wants, but she isn’t all bad. Strong singer/actor with strong movement skills. Very comic.- Mezzo
MAYOR – The Mayor of Whoville and JoJo’s Dad. He and his wife try hard to raise a difficult child in a difficult world. Strong singer/actor. Baritone
MRS. MAYOR – The Mayor’s Wife and JoJo’s Mom. Her and her husband try hard to raise a difficult child in a difficult world. Mezzo
SOUR KANGAROO – A kangaroo and a citizen of the Jungle of Nool. She isn’t really sour at all. She’s just got a lot of attitude. She’s loud, brassy and a lot of fun. A strong singer/actor with good comic ability and soulful singing. Mezzo
WICKERSHAM BROTHERS – Three monkey brothers and citizens of the Jungle of Nool. These are not bad guys! They’re simply a lot like kids who tease, play pranks and get a kick out of making mischief, although often at others’ expense. – Tenor, Baritone, Bass
BIRD GIRLS – Three sassy birds and citizens of the Jungle of Nool. The popular girls in any school–a clique of pretty, self-centered “backup birds” who do whatever Mayzie does. Soprano, Mezzo, Alto
ENSEMBLE: A variety of imagined characters and creatures including The Who’s, Fish, Jungle Citizens, Circus Acts, etc. Featured Roles include: Yertle the Turtle, Vlad Vladakoff and Doctor Dake Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass
Important Dates (Audition/Callbacks, Rehearsals, Shows, etc.)
Auditions:
Date: Friday, Jan. 5th, 6:00PM
Location: Oak Grove United Methodist Church (14700 SE Rupert Dr, Oak Grove, OR 97267)
*Time-slots open for sign up below.
Callbacks:
Date: Saturday, Jan. 6th, 9:00am-1:00pm
Location: Oak Grove United Methodist Church (14700 SE Rupert Dr, Oak Grove, OR 97267)
Required Parent/Guardian Meeting:
Rehearsals:
Tech Week:
Location: Milwaukie High School (2301 SE Willard St, Milwaukie, OR 97222)
Detailed schedule to be shared prior to Tech Week.
Performances:
Location: Milwaukie High School (2301 SE Willard St, Milwaukie, OR 97222)
Date: Friday, Jan. 5th, 6:00PM
Location: Oak Grove United Methodist Church (14700 SE Rupert Dr, Oak Grove, OR 97267)
*Time-slots open for sign up below.
Callbacks:
Date: Saturday, Jan. 6th, 9:00am-1:00pm
Location: Oak Grove United Methodist Church (14700 SE Rupert Dr, Oak Grove, OR 97267)
Required Parent/Guardian Meeting:
- Meeting 1 - Friday, Jan. 12th, 7:30-9:00pm for all families/guardians. This meeting is during rehearsal time. This meeting is about building connections, forming committees, etc. Each family/student must have one parent/guardian present.
- Meeting 2 - Friday, Feb. 16th, 7:30-9:00pm (during rehearsal time). This meeting prepares us for the coming production run by breaking into new committees (green room, concessions, etc.) Each family/student must have one parent/guardian present.
Rehearsals:
- Location: Oak Grove United Methodist Church (14700 SE Rupert Dr, Oak Grove, OR 97267)
- Friday Evenings, 6pm-9pm (Jan. 12th - March 8th)
- Saturdays, 9am-1pm (Jan. 13th - March 9th)
Tech Week:
Location: Milwaukie High School (2301 SE Willard St, Milwaukie, OR 97222)
Detailed schedule to be shared prior to Tech Week.
- Move-In: March. 3rd, 1:30pm-9pm (All Parents/Guardians must attend.)
- Tech Week Rehearsals: Monday-Thursday, 3/4-3/7, 6pm-9pm (Student Call Times)
Performances:
Location: Milwaukie High School (2301 SE Willard St, Milwaukie, OR 97222)
- Friday, March 8th at 7pm (Call Time 6pm)
- Saturday, March 9th at 2pm & 6pm (Call Time 1pm, Lead Roles may be called early for special event.)
- Sunday, March 10th at 2pm (Call Time 1pm)
- Friday, March 15th at 7pm (Call Time 6pm)
- Saturday, March 16th at 2pm and 6pm (Call Time 12pm, earlier for cast photos.)
- Sunday, March 17th at 2pm (Call Time 1pm) (Cast/Crew Party after performance, until about 8pm)
General Requirements, Health/Safety & Parent/Guardian Expectations (Fees, Show Committees, etc.)
Requirements To Be In The Show
- Age: This production is open to actors ages 7 & 8-18 (Must turn 8 before auditions. Those that are 7 may audition for an ensemble role if they previously have successfully been a part of an Imagine Theatre Youth Camp.)
- Students are NOT required (though encouraged) to be enrolled in Imagine Theatre Winter 2024 classes to audition for this production. To learn about our class options and to register, please visit imaginetheatre.org/classes.
- Note: Per Imagine policy, it is assumed students will accept any role they are given. As an educational organization, we are focused on placing students in roles that will encourage growth. With that being said, Imagine does not refund class costs due to casting drops.
- If you have questions about your student’s ability to participate in a production please contact office@imaginetheatre.org.
Fees/Cost
- The Production Fee (paid by actors, not crew) for Seussical TYA. will be $160, due by the second weekend of rehearsals.
- In a Winter '24 Class? Those in registered for a '24 Winter Class will receive $20 off their production fee.
- What Do We Get With The Production Fee? With this fee, students/families will get a show sticker, a digital link to photos, and 1 comp (free) ticket. (Max of 2 comp tickets per family for those with more than one student in the show.) When paying for the production fee, Families/Students are given the opportunity to purchase a show shirt (not required), and other additional items (Show Posters, etc.).
- Scholarships: Scholarships are available for any Imagine Theatre program, including production fees. View our Scholarship Guidance document, and the required steps, here!
- What is a Production Fee For? Production Fees are in place to assist in covering the expenses of putting on a show. For additional information on Production Fees, see our General Information.
Parent/Guardian Expectations (Show Committees, etc.)
Imagine Theatre cast member's are expected to have one adult (typically a parent, relative, or guardian) participate in Show Committee(s). Shows take lots of work, plus show committees are a fun way to meet other families and bond as a community!
More information about the show and committees will be discussed Jan. 12th (see times above), at the required parent/guardian meeting. Families will communicate their schedule and skills for committee placement consideration.
Read about parent/guardian involvement expectations here
Please fill out the Show Committee preference form prior to auditions here.
More information about the show and committees will be discussed Jan. 12th (see times above), at the required parent/guardian meeting. Families will communicate their schedule and skills for committee placement consideration.
Read about parent/guardian involvement expectations here
Please fill out the Show Committee preference form prior to auditions here.
Student Expectations & Code of Conduct
Imagine's Student Expectation & Code of Conduct communicates the expectations of students who participate in Imagine Programming. This covers electronic/cell phone expectations, behavioral expectations, and general safety considerations. Students and families/guardians will be required to sign the Student Expectations document, affirming that they have read it and agree to uphold these standards.
Health & Safety
- Masks are optional.
- Vaccinations are encouraged but not required.
- Read our Communicable Disease Management Plan Here.
- *Imagine Theatre reserves the right to change guidance as it sees fit.
Crew, Backstage, & Tech Opportunities
We are looking to fill the following crew roles for this production of Seussical TYA. If you are interested in any of these roles, please complete the Crew form (To Be Updated Soon).
Applications for Stage Manager due Jan. 5th.
Applications other Crew roles are due Jan. 9th.
Crew must attend Move-In, ALL of tech week, and each performance dates/times as listed above. Additionally, crew is called to the following rehearsals:
Stage Manager (ages 14+): The Stage Manager is responsible for helping keep track of cast members, blocking, set movement and miscellaneous details during rehearsals and production of a stage performance as directed by the Artistic Team. They also attend all rehearsals and shows as well as move in day at the theater. The Stage Manager will need to arrive 15 minutes before all call times.
Light Board Operator (ages 13+): The Light Board Operator is responsible for operating the light board during all performances. Performs daily light checks at the beginning of all technical rehearsals and performance call times to ensure that all lighting equipment is working properly.
Stage Crew (ages 12+): Crew members assist with props, moving set pieces, charging glow tape, cleaning, etc.
Applications for Stage Manager due Jan. 5th.
Applications other Crew roles are due Jan. 9th.
Crew must attend Move-In, ALL of tech week, and each performance dates/times as listed above. Additionally, crew is called to the following rehearsals:
- TBA
- Other rehearsals may be added in coordination with the crew team's schedules.
Stage Manager (ages 14+): The Stage Manager is responsible for helping keep track of cast members, blocking, set movement and miscellaneous details during rehearsals and production of a stage performance as directed by the Artistic Team. They also attend all rehearsals and shows as well as move in day at the theater. The Stage Manager will need to arrive 15 minutes before all call times.
Light Board Operator (ages 13+): The Light Board Operator is responsible for operating the light board during all performances. Performs daily light checks at the beginning of all technical rehearsals and performance call times to ensure that all lighting equipment is working properly.
Stage Crew (ages 12+): Crew members assist with props, moving set pieces, charging glow tape, cleaning, etc.
Audition, Callbacks, & Casting (How to Sign Up & What to Expect)
How to Audition:
What Are Auditions & Callbacks Like?
The audition process is a fun and integral part of the production! We understand that auditions can feel stressful, but everyone you see is your biggest cheerleader! When you thrive, we thrive.
- Fill out the form - Here
- Sign up for an audition slot - Here. (Each 20-minute audition time will have space for 8 auditioners. Please come 15 minutes early to ensure you are checked in and have proper paperwork completed. You may bring someone with you into your audition time as a support person.)
- Prepare A Song: Please come prepared to sing 1 minute of a musical-theatre-show song. Bring your own accompaniment (instrumental/karaoke, no vocals) on a phone, or tablet and we will play it for your turn. If you are using a phone, please have the appropriate dongle to connect to a speaker.
What Are Auditions & Callbacks Like?
The audition process is a fun and integral part of the production! We understand that auditions can feel stressful, but everyone you see is your biggest cheerleader! When you thrive, we thrive.
- WHEN ARRIVING: When you arrive for auditions, you will check in and make sure all your information is in order. You will get your headshot taken and receive any additional information. One adult may accompany each student into the audition room as moral support.
- AUDITIONING: You and seven other auditioners, along with their moral support people, will go into the audition room as a group. When it is your turn to perform your song, you will be called up. Hand your accompaniment device to the audio person cued up to the spot you want to begin singing. Stand in front of the artistic team and they will let you know when you may begin. When prompted, “slate”, which means introduce yourself by name and age, then tell us which song selection you have chosen. Then you will indicate for the audio person to begin your song and you can sing. When you have completed, say, “Thank you.” You will get to watch five other students audition, so please show encouragement by staying engaged and applauding when appropriate.
- CALLBACKS: Callbacks will be requested at the discretion of the Directors. If you are called back, you will receive notice before 11pm on Friday, Sept. 15th. Callbacks will be held on Saturday, Sept. 16th from 9am-1pm at Oak Grove UMC. You will be notified if you are to attend the entire time, or just a portion thereof. If you are NOT called back, that does not mean you are not getting considered for a part. Being “called back” simply means the directors would like to see you read/perform something specific. For this production, callbacks will consist of a dance, music, and cold readings from the script.
- The Cast List will be sent out via email, and shared on social media. Since Imagine Theatre is an education focused organization, we expect that students will take the role they are given. Dropping out of the show after casting really impacts the whole cast as things may need to be moved. Due to this, dropping out of the show after casting could impact future casting decisions.
- The cast size of this show is capped at 60. Imagine Theatre’s goal to provide a education experience for every student who desires it. The show is capped to provide students with a higher quality experience, and more time on stage. This may mean that some who audition are not cast in the show. Should cuts occur, students registered for an Imagine Classes will not be cut.
- Imagine Theatre values diversity on our stage and in our theater. In casting, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. We aim to cast respectfully and appropriately to all cultures and identities.
QUESTIONS?
Contact Kim Wallace, Production Coordinator - kimw@imaginetheatre.org
Contact Kim Wallace, Production Coordinator - kimw@imaginetheatre.org
