Dr. Seuss created many children’s books throughout his prestigious career as an author and illustrator, and recently, a variety of his works have been combined to form the musical “Seuessical.” In early March, members of the communities surrounding Ely had the pleasure of seeing the junior version at the Washington Auditorium in Ely.

The cast had been rehearsing for months, and they had worked very hard. On their opening night they dazzled their audience with colorful costumes, vocals, and dance routines. Now before you tell your self, “ Oh boy, not another sub-par performance by some school in the middle of nowhere,” I must tell you that this wasn’t a community production, or even a high school production. This production was put on by a cast of fifth and sixth graders.

The story centers around Horton the Elephant, who finds himself faced with a double challenge. He must not only protect his tiny friend Jojo (and all the nearly invisible Whos) from a world of haters and dangers, but he must also guard an abandoned egg, left to his care by the extravagant Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces persecution, unpredictable dangers, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses her faith in him and Horton lives up to her faith. Ultimately, the powers of friendship are challenged and emerge more powerful than the naysayer’s voices.

This production was directed by the fabulous Sheila Clouse, choreographed by Martina Jarecki, two fine individuals who have been putting on shows each spring since before 2002. Other shows they have put on are, “Aladdin Jr.,” “Honk Jr.,” “Annie Jr.,” Into the Woods Jr.,” and “The Pirates of Penzance Jr.” Their productions have been great for the young students. It allows them to experience the true joys that come with acting for the first time in their lives.

Taking part in the arts, especially plays, at a young age helps develop a kid’s sense of responsibility, since they are responsible for learning their lines, songs, and dances. It also appeals to the creative side of their brains, allowing the kids to imagine and pretend, to be a talking elephant or a tiny little Who. Kids who took part in “Seussical” worked hard, had fun, and put on a great show.