The Wiregrass drama department presents ‘Seussical the Musical’

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Lillian Nelson

The Seussical cast during rehearsal at the Wesley Chapel Performing Arts Center

The drama department at Wiregrass Ranch will be putting on the well-known production, “Seussical the Musical” on Saturday, March 3. The show will be performed twice, once at 3:00 pm and again at 7:00 pm at the Wesley Chapel Center for the Arts. Tickets are $10 at the door or $8 if you buy them online.

This production follows the story of “Horton Hears a Who,” and includes classic Dr. Seuss characters like Horton, the Whos, jungle animals, and the Cat in the Hat. Gertrude McFuzz, one of the lead roles, is played by sophomore Lillian Nelson, who shared her anticipation for the upcoming performance.

“I’m a little worried because we still have a few things to get ready,” Nelson said, “but I can’t wait to perform for everybody!”

Other performers commented on their excitement for Saturday, including freshman Evan Lomba, who plays another lead part of the Cat in the Hat.

“It’s crazy to think that the show opens this week!” Lomba said. “I couldn’t be happier to be playing this part for the second time and I’m getting the same rush as I did before,” Lomba said, mentioning his previous work in community theater.

Lillian Nelson
Oliveri and Anna Claire Frick (9) as their characters during rehearsal

The drama program had a change in leadership this year with the introduction of a new teacher, Mr. Murray. Since then, the drama department performed a play based on the stories of Edgar Allen Poe, and are about to debut their spring musical.

Junior Eli Oliveri commented on his excitement for the new musical and the added challenge of playing three roles: the Mayor, the Grinch, and Wickersham #1.

“It’s hard to create three different characters that are each filled with their own personalities,” Oliveri said. “However, it is one of the most enjoyable and riveting challenges I have ever faced!”

Oliveri further explained that this show has brought him and his cast mates an element of connection that wasn’t there previously.

“Drawing nearer to showtime, I think it’s safe to say that this show has pulled us closer in profound new ways,” Oliveri said. “We built this show as a family, and we dearly hope it adds life into yours.”