Riverside City College’s Theatre Arts Department has once again dazzled audiences with its high-energy, visually stunning production of Seussical the Musical. Directed by Jodi Julian and featuring a stellar cast and production team, the show opens on March 13 at the Landis Performing Arts Center, delivering an immersive, whimsical journey through the beloved world of Dr. Seuss.

Seussical the Musical, with music by Stephen Flaherty and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, weaves together many of Dr. Seuss’s most cherished stories into a vibrant, heartwarming tale. At its core is Horton the Elephant, who discovers a tiny world—Whoville—on a speck of dust and vows to protect it, despite the disbelief and ridicule of those around him. Alongside him is Jojo, a Who child with an imagination too big for the world he lives in. As Horton faces challenges in the Jungle of Nool, including the mischievous Wickersham Brothers and the self-absorbed Mayzie La Bird, his steadfast kindness and perseverance drive home the musical’s central message: "A person’s a person, no matter how small." With the ever-quirky Cat in the Hat as the narrator, Seussical is a lively and touching celebration of friendship, loyalty, and the power of imagination.

Leading the charge is Bryce Johnson as the mischievous and charismatic Cat in the Hat, effortlessly guiding the audience through the fantastical narrative with boundless energy and comedic flair. Max Ramirez shines as Jojo, embodying youthful curiosity and imagination, while Tore Ancona’s heartfelt portrayal of Horton the Elephant brings warmth and sincerity to the stage. Bella Ramirez’s Gertrude McFuzz and Victoria Villamil’s Mayzie La Bird add a delightful contrast, showcasing both vulnerability and flamboyant confidence. The ensemble cast—featuring an array of Wickersham Brothers, Bird Girls, and Whos—keeps the momentum high with dynamic choreography and engaging performances.

Costume designer Marci Alberti has crafted a visual spectacle, with bright, exaggerated outfits that bring each beloved Seussian character to life. The vibrant color palette, playful textures, and whimsical accessories contribute to the magical ambiance, making the characters appear as if they’ve leapt straight from the pages of Dr. Seuss’s books.

Meanwhile, Gavan Wyrick’s lighting design enhances the fantastical elements of the production, creating a world that is both larger-than-life and deeply immersive. The use of bold hues and animated lighting cues heightens the emotional beats of the story, from the playful chaos of the Jungle of Nool to the delicate charm of Whoville.

A standout feature of this production is the innovative use of video wall screens, designed and produced by Jason Graham. These digital backdrops transform the stage into a constantly shifting landscape, seamlessly transporting audiences from one whimsical location to another. Whether depicting a swirling sky of possibilities during “Oh, The Thinks You Can Think” or the vast expanses of Horton’s jungle home, the screens add depth and motion, making the production feel larger than life.

Under the expert musical direction of John Tebay and the precise choreography of Brenda Jill Castillo, Seussical pulses with energy from start to finish. The orchestra, conducted by Kevin Mayse, provides a lively and dynamic musical foundation, ensuring that every number is as catchy as it is emotive.

This production of Seussical is a testament to the talent and dedication of the RCC Theatre Arts Department. With its electric performances, dazzling visuals, and innovative stagecraft, it captures the heart and soul of Dr. Seuss’s timeless stories. Whether you’re young or young at heart, this Seussical is an unmissable theatrical adventure that reminds us all of the power of imagination and the importance of believing in the impossible.

Tickets for remaining performances can be purchased at rccboxoffice.com'>rccboxoffice.com. Don’t miss your chance to see this magical world come to life!