REVIEW: How the Grinch Stole Christmas
There is no sound quite like “Fah-who foris, dah-who doris,” to put the joy of Christmas in your heart. Especially when the sound surrounds you, in a dark candlelit theatre, immersed in The Children’s Theatre Company’s holiday adaptation of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It’s an enchanting way to start the holiday season.
As the 11th run of the show for the Children’s Theatre, they know what they’re doing. A timeless, yet up-to-date story, included the “grinchy griddy” and all that theater magic. When the Grinch’s sleigh took flight, my fourth grader leaned over and whispered with delight, “Mom, how’d they do that?!”
Reed Sigmund, as the Grinch, and was every bit as putrid and lovable as you want him to be. And young actors, Matthew Woody (Young Max) and Monica Xiong (Cindy Lou Who) shined in their roles. The singing and dancing went beyond the stage, as the actors joined the audience throughout the story. The “interactiveness” of it was a highlight for our second grader.
Beyond the stage, the Children’s Theatre brings joy to its audience with its activities in the lobby, and the printed kid-friendly program. The “Interview with the Grinch” had the whole family laughing and the kids loved creating “seuss creatures” while waiting for the play to begin. The Children’s Theatre knows how to put on a family-friendly theater experience. In fact, this was one of the more raucous crowds of tots I’ve been around for a show. Many of the small audience members added noise to show, which, while slightly distracting, meant that it was a very welcoming place to bring your kids.
Any seat will give you a wonderful experience, but for best viewing, avoid the far “house right.” And if you go on a weekend you can stop by and see the MIA for free beforehand. A great way to make a full day of your trip.
Now through January 7, 2024. Tickets start at $15.
Review by Tracy Whitney; photo by Glen Stubbe
