Casting
Character Breakdown
A "Thinker." He's a smart child with a wild imagination. JoJo can be played as being a little bit awkward, a little bit of a loner, or simply a rambunctious kid whose "Thinks" get him into constant trouble. By the end of the show, he learns what it means to be a responsible member of his community, using the power and possibilities of his own "Thinks." JoJo should be one of your strongest singers, and can easily be played by a young girl or boy.
The essence of mischief, fun, and imagination. The Cat stirs things up and causes trouble but always sets things right again. He helps JoJo discover the power of his own imagination as they create the story of Seussical JR. together. Look for a physically adept actor (male or female) to play the Cat who is confident onstage, comfortable with comedy, and able to improvise with the audience if needed. The Cat does not need to be your strongest singer but should still have good rhythm and timing.
A gentle giant. Think of Horton as a big-hearted, blue-collar guy who is steadfast, responsible, and always tries to do the right thing. He is sympathetic and receptive to the world around him. He believes in the inherent goodness of the world, so it's no surprise that he always looks for the good in others. Horton goes on quite a journey throughout the show but stays true to himself, even when the going gets tough. Cast a great singer and actor in this important role.
Mr. Mayor and Mrs. Mayor are parents trying hard to raise a child with a big imagination. These Whos may get aggravated with JoJo, but they love him dearly. They try their best to make the right choices as parents, even if JoJo doesn't always understand them. They are also upstanding members of their community. Cast two performers who are good singers and pair well together. Remember, Mr. and Mrs. Mayor are a team.
Mr. Mayor and Mrs. Mayor are parents trying hard to raise a child with a big imagination. These Whos may get aggravated with JoJo, but they love him dearly. They try their best to make the right choices as parents, even if JoJo doesn't always understand them. They are also upstanding members of their community. Cast two performers who are good singers and pair well together. Remember, Mr. and Mrs. Mayor are a team.
Very self-conscious about her one-feather tail. Gertrude gains confidence throughout the show, changing from an anxious, nervous, shy bird into someone whose self-worth doesn't rest on her appearance. In other words, Gertrude realizes what's truly important in her life. Cast a wonderful actor and a great singer in this role, and make sure well with Horton.
Self-centered, vain, and manipulative. She ultimately means no harm, but she's immature and makes selfish decisions. In giving up her egg to Horton once and for all, she has a moment of self- awareness - she realizes she isn't the kind of bird who would be a good parent, and she does the best thing she can for the egg. Cast a performer who is a good singer and great actor and can sell Mayzie's larger-than-life personality.
The Wickersham Brothers, including Wickersham 1, Wickersham 2, and Wickersham 3, are not bad guys! They tease, play pranks, and get a kick out of making mischief, although often at another's expense. Cast great movers who work well as a group, and encourage each of your actors to find an individual Wickersham persona.
The Bird Girls, including Bird Girl 1, Bird Girl 2, and Bird Girl 3, are a fabulous group of birds who know everything there is to know about the goings on in the jungle and support Mayzie throughout the show. Cast girls who are great movers, singers, and work well together as a group.
Loud, brassy, and a lot of fun. She's got a lot of attitude but isn't mean - she's just very confident and unafraid to tell it like it is. Cast a great actor with a bring-down-the-house singing voice who is unafraid of making bold choices onstage.
Sour Kangaroo's feisty daughter. She may be pint- sized, but she's got a big personality and is following in her mother's footsteps. Young Kangaroo doesn't have to be the best singer, but she should be a great actor with lots of attitude and pair well with Sour Kangaroo.
The authoritative judge who presides over Horton's trial at the end of the show. Yertle is a great role for a newer performer who may not be quite ready for the responsibility of a larger part. Cast a good singer and actor who can command the stage.
The black-bottomed eagle who flies off with the Whos. Vlad is onstage very briefly and doesn't sing, so this is a good role for a member of your ensemble who can make a big impression in a short amount of time.
Arguably the most famous Seuss character of all! He has a brief, fun cameo in Seussical JR. Cast a good actor and singer who can have fun with the Grinch's short solo.
The Whos (including First Who Family, Second Who Family, Third Who Family, Fourth Who Family, and Fifth Who Family) are the citizens of Whoville and they look a lot like you and me, only so small they are invisible to the naked eye. They are a tight-knit, supportive community. Encourage everyone playing a Who to create his or her own unique character.
The Jungle Citizens, Hunters, Circus Animals, Fish, Nurses, Courtroom Attendants, additional Wickersham Brothers and Bird Girls all help fill out the world Seussical JR. These ensemble roles are great places for anyone who would like to be involved in your production. Encourage these performers to create their own individual characters, especially if they are playing multiple roles.