Lindero Middle School Gets 'Seussy'

You don't need to love green eggs and ham to enjoy Seussical the Musical, being performed next week at the Thousand Oaks Civic Center by 50 students from .

Directed by Ray Saar, a former Broadway performer and new addition to the school's theatrical program, Seussical brings several of Dr. Seuss' famous characters to life, all in musical fashion.

The plot is from Horton Hears a Who! centers on Horton the elephant's efforts to protect the people of Who-ville, who inhabit a tiny speck of dust. The production also features characters and scenarios from many other Seuss books, including the Butter Side Uppers/Downers from The Butter Battle Book, Gertrude McFuzz, and, in addition to a music number based on its original story. The Cat in the Hat acts as the narrator throughout the show, briefly getting into the act at several points to create conflict and keep the story moving.

"There is actually dual casts that will be performing at different shows," said Laura Leininger, the assistant director who's also been working with the kids since October of 2011 on the music.

Christopher Reilly, an eighth-grader and aspiring actor who portrays Horton in all performances, said he particularly enjoys portraying the protective elephant. "I really like that Horton's an honest type of guy," he said. "He sets his goals, and he doesn't give up. People can learn a lesson from him."

Reilly also commends Saar's focused attention to the needs of the students. "He's not just focused on the kids as a whole but on the actors as individuals," he said. "He helps develop the characters by working with us one-on-one."

"It's fun to work with these kids," said Saar, who's performed with the likes of Bob Hope and Yul Brynner. "They have such insight into the characters and they answer my inquiries so honestly."

Saar feels that audiences of all ages will enjoy Seussical for its universal message. "It's an absolutely inventive show that will showcase some amazing talent," he said. "The story takes people on Horton's journey ... teaching people about the importance of honesty and commitment ... and to use your imagination."

Performances are scheduled at 7:30 p.m. on Wed., March 14, Thurs., March 15 and Friday, March 16 at Scherr Forum Theater at the Thousand Oaks Civic Auditorium. Doors open at 7 p.m. and tickets are $15.

To purchase tickets, call Stacy Mitchell at 818-804-0225 or email sixmitchells@me.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the door on show nights.

Students will also perform a matinee at the Scherr Forum on Friday, March 16, for fellow classmates.