How The Grinch Stole Christmas
Fox Theatre
through December 12, 2021
The musical adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s classic work has come to town with a really grand production. The show has a large cast splendiferous costumes, great props and technical production values. Directed by Matt August with a full orchestra in the pit under the baton of Peter Leigh-Nilsen, they work non-stop through all 18 numbers; albeit the only one most folks always recognize is You’re a Mean One Mr. Grinch.
James Schultz is a really eerie Grinch, and W. Scott Stewart takes the stage as Old Max, who begins the show and comes back in the final scene. The alternating young actors who play Cindy-Lou Who are Sofie Nesanelis and Quinn Titcomb; while Hihano Kuzukawa and Sadie O’Sullivan come on as little Annie Who. Xavier McKnight fills the role as the young Max in many scenes.
And you know the story. That grumpy Grinch hates Christmas and all it stands for; while those folks in Whoville are totally dedicated to the holiday festivities. It’s a bit like contemporary political divides. But all come right in the end as this is a story for children of any age.
The show is performed in one act running about one hour and 45 minutes, and playing to a pretty full house. Of course there are plenty of little folks in the audience and they are loving it. If you are bringing a youngster you may wish to get seats on the right or left of the center section; as the center seats are aligned behind one another and if you have a tall person in front your vision is impaired. The seats in the side sections are all on a slight diagonal pattern, so you usually have a somewhat better view of the stage.
The Fox allegedly follows the usual Covid protocols, but be aware that sometimes they may not seem to be strictly enforced; albeit masks are required for all adults at all times. Many youngsters may not be masked and for some folks that could be a deterrent. You can get full info at the Fox website, FoxTheatre.org. The show is very well performed and staged and quite enjoyable. Just plan to get there a bit earlier than usual if you can.