Rehearsals underway for Dr Seuss musical

Rehearsals for the new musical Seussical, being produced by Masquerade, started last week with the arrival of musical director Andy Reiss from the UK.

Mr Reiss, who has worked in the West End on shows such as Les Miserables, will also teach the catchy tunes to the performers.

Culled from the many literary works of Theodor Seuss Geisel, known to most as Dr Seuss, Seussical The Musical tells the wacky tale of an elephant who discovers a planet on a speck of dust, of a bird that grows a tail so long that it cannot fly, and of a child who dares to dream.

Created by composer Stephen Flaherty and writer Lynn Ahrens, the show boasts an exciting soundtrack with the music a mix of R&B, Latin and pop.

Masquerade Theatre Company will bring to life the imaginative and colourful world of Dr Seuss over two weekends at the Manoel Theatre from April 21.

Having presented musicals such as Annie, The King And I, Little Shop Of Horrors and Cabaret in recent years, Masquerade's artistic director Anthony Bezzina is very happy to be working with something so exciting.

"It's nice to do a family-oriented show. I am excited to do a show that will bring kids back in. This whole show really is fun for all ages," he said.

Seussical will have a cast of around 30 performers. Its artistic director is Mr Bezzina and the choreographer is Alison White.

Booking is open at the Manoel Theatre box office.

Prices range from Lm4 to Lm8.50. More information is available by calling 2124 6389 or going to websites: www.manoeltheatre.com, www.masquerademalta.com