Brackman Theatre Company Takes Flight with ‘Seussical JR.’

BARNEGAT, NJ - Imagine a stage bursting with color, energy, and the infectious spirit of over 50 middle school students, bringing Dr. Seuss's beloved characters to life. That's the magic brewing at the Brackman Theatre Company, where a dress rehearsal for their upcoming "Seussical JR" production offered a delightful glimpse into the fantastical world waiting to unfold.

From the moment they stepped on stage, it was clear these young performers weren't just playing their parts – they were personifying them. As The Cat in the Hat, Ryan DiCaro’s mischievous charm seems to come quite naturally. Wearing his signature red and white striped hat, Ryan led the audience on a whirlwind adventure through the whimsical landscapes of the Jungle of Nool and the fantastical Circus McGurkus.

“I’ve noticed that even in my everyday life, I am embodying my character,” Ryan admitted. “I see it in my behavior, hand movements, and even how I talk.”

Horton the Elephant, played by AJ Smith lumbered across the stage, ready to face any challenge to protect the tiny Whos living on a speck of dust. These miniature marvels, despite their size, displayed a remarkable sense of community, their synchronized movements and energetic song numbers reminding everyone that even the smallest voices can make a mighty stand.

Emma Arriaga takes on the role of JoJo, maintaining the magic of the performance. Aubrey Meyer plays the character Gertrude McFuzz and brings depth and charm to the role. Meanwhile, Coree Meehan continues to impress with her outstanding portrayal of Mayzie La Bird, a role once played by her older sister.

Staying in character is important to Coree, who said the role requires her to act in a self-centered manner. She laughed, saying that means being the “worst person ever.”

But the true magic of this production wasn't just in the individual performances; it was in the way these young actors and actresses seamlessly came together as a single, cohesive unit. Their camaraderie and teamwork were evident throughout the rehearsal, adding an extra layer of charm and authenticity to the beloved story.

Seussical JR. comes with great lessons that seem to have resonated with each of the cast members.

“Basically, the message of the show is anything you think or believe in,” said Matthew Vrahnos, who plays one of The Whos. “Could eventually happen if you try hard enough.”

“I think the message is that no matter how old you are,”  added Mila Ellis, another of The Whos. “You should always let your imagination run wild.”

Peighton Sagaas, one of the Bird Girls, agreed with her castmates as far as being imaginative and creative but said the show came with another critical lesson.

“You shouldn’t change yourself just for somebody else,” she said. “You should be yourself.”

Whether you're a Dr. Seuss enthusiast or simply seeking a heartwarming and entertaining experience, "Seussical JR." at the Brackman Theatre Company promises to be a delightful journey filled with laughter, song, and the power of believing in the extraordinary. So, dust off your sense of wonder, grab your tickets, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible talent and heart of these young performers!

Seussical Jr. opens at the Brackman School on Thursday, February 29, at 7 pm and runs on Friday, March 1, at 7 pm, with a Saturday afternoon performance at March 2nd at noon. Adult tickets-$10, Kids, Students and Senior Citizens tickets-$5.

Director/Choreographer-Meghan VanderPyl

Assistant Director-Kimberly Bopp

Vocal Coach-Alex Dubinsky

CAST

JoJo....................................... Emma Arriaga*

The Cat in the Hat................... Ryan DiCaro*

Horton the Elephant............. AJ Smith*

Mr. Mayor............................ Cameron Lizaire

Mrs. Mayor............................ Morgan Green*

Gertrude McFuzz.................. Aubrey Meyer*

Mayzie La Bird...................... Coree Meehan*

Wickersham Brothers............ Emma Cuber*, Cheyenne Greene*, McKayla Krug*, Elizabeth Topoleski* and Melaina Warner*

Bird Girls........ Emma Holler*, Emma Rollis*, Peighton Sagaas*, Adyson Thomas

Sour Kangaroo................. Angelina Colavita*

Young Kangaroo....................... Gia Scalanga

Yertle the Turtle...................... Xavier Kunzel

Vlad Vladikoff...................... Luciano DeLuca

The Whos......... Eddie Brenner, Cooper Casey,

Nate Davis,, Azlynn Harker,

Lillian Houghkirk, Layla Jarczynski, Alice Jones, Skyler Montefusco, Hailey Ordondez, Sophia Reed-Hughes, Salette Reyes, Lilyann Ryberg, Mya Thomas, Matthew Vrahnos, Serena Wolf

Stage Crew…………………………Andrea Andrade, Lucas Batista, Aly Bently, Sami Carle, James Dunnkosky, John Evans, Natalie Janssen, Ally Mele, Michael Merlin, Krupam Patel, Zach Picone, Kaya Roehrig, Kenny Stetson, Tina Stetson

*Students marked with an asterisk are members of the Russell O. Brackman School’s chapter of the International Junior Thespian Society.