“Seussical Jr” by Spotlight Theatre School
Nottingham Arts Theatre

Spotlight Theatre School transport us from the Jungle of Noo to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must also guard an abandoned egg that's been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird.

Although Horton faces ridicule, danger and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant! Oh the things you can think!

I’ve been hankering after seeing this delightful and fun piece of theatre for a few years and every time I have been offered the chance, something has either gone awry or I’ve not been free, so when this chance came, I took it!

It always amazes me with the confidence and the talent of the young people I see on stage, and this production is no different; I was open mouthed at the talented kids that Spotlight Theatre School have shown us.

George Young, who played the Cat In The Hat was brilliantly entertaining and really got into the character well.

Megan Holder (Jojo), Jude Forsey (The Mayor) and Tayla Collins (Mrs Mayor) are part of Whoville, the city within thje speck of dust that Horton The elephant is guarding.

Horton was played by an incredibly talented young man called Bradley Law. This young man has one of the most wonderful singing voices I have heard in one so young. His clarity and control, with just the right amount of vibrato shows that this young man is destined for the stage. He has stage presence and a confidence beyond his years and a real joy to experience.

I loved the streetwise kangaroo, played by Zach Silcock, he has attitude in character, along with Little kangaroo, played by Lennon Crawford.

Talking of attitude, Emily Holder as Gertrude McFuzz, was full of it! great job.

And then there are the very naughty and cheeky Wickersham Brothers - Scarlett Coleman-Smith, Finlay Tomlinson and Harry Smith.

There were many many other youngsters involved in this lovely production that really made me feel very warm inside. It also gave me confidence in local theatre having a host of young talent coming up through the ranks. talent I hope that i will be around to see blossom on the Nottingham stages for m any years.

Choreographed by Bethany Wear, Directed by Jess Hardy-Turner, Produced by Amanda Hall, Musical Director was Patrick McChrystal, Sound & light by Tom Mowat and Stage manager was Laura Ellis. The wonderful costumes were sourced by Amanda Hall and Sophie Petruccio-Hall. As you can tell with this team, the show was of the best quality all round.

It was not like watching a show performed by youngsters because the dedication and discipline they have showed is something you'd expect from their seniors.

What I also love about this theatre school is that these young kids can see teenagers and young adults working back stage and with them, and gives them that confidence that they too can achieve what they have, and is within their grasp.... if they want it, and there are people who can make it all happen for them.