NAUGATUCK — The Naugatuck Teen Theater’s production of “Seussical” is loaded with boisterous songs, colorful costumes and plenty of talent.
The theater company will put on six performances of the musical, which is based on the books by Dr. Seuss, beginning Friday.
Dan Checovetes, who is directing the musical, said he chose this particular show because it was very creative and imaginative, which allowed the actors to really connect and have fun with it.
Checovetes felt Seussical is a great show for teens to do because they were children not too long ago. That means that they are able to bring some personal experience of being a child to the roles.
Zach Carter, who plays General Genghis Khan Schmitz, tapped into his inner child.
With a laugh, Carter explained that his character enlists the main character, JoJo, to fight in the butter wars. Carter said that there were crazy scenes throughout the play, which makes him enjoy it all the more.
“I enjoy every bit of this show,” Carter said.
Even though the play itself is whimsical and lighthearted, the actors take the production and the theater seriously.
“This theatre started me off on the right track with where I want to go in the future,” Carter said.
Aimee Ton, who plays Mayzie La Bird, has been working with this theater since she was a sophomore. She is currently a senior.
This will be her sixth play and the first lead she has had in a musical. She was very happy that in her final production with the theater, she has accomplished enough to earn a lead role.
Ton said the theater has meant a lot to her over the years.
“Without the teen theatre I would be sitting at home in front of the T.V., losing brain cells,” Ton said.
K’Elleyr Smith, who plays The Cat in the Hat, will also be ending her career with the Naugatuck Teen Theater with this performance.
Smith said Seussical is one of her favorite shows she has done and is thankful she will be ending her career with the teen theater on this show.
Ton felt that the audiences of all ages will enjoy the show.
“Come see the show, it is worth it,” Ton said.
Carter felt that the entire cast and crew has given their all to make Seussical great.
“Everybody wants this show to go up and be good,” Carter said.
Show dates for Seussical are May 4, 5, 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. and May 6 and 13 at 2 p.m. at St. Michael’s Parish Hall, 210 Church St., Naugatuck.
