Seussical the Musical

IAN CLARKE

Northgate High School, Dereham

I had constantly to pinch myself as I was taken on a magical journey through the enchanting world of Dr Seuss.

Yes, I really was in a school hall, watching the British premiere of a show that has taken America by storm and in which many of the 140-strong cast were as young as 11.

Northgate has a growing reputation for stunning stage shows and the opening night of Seussical was a ringing endorsement of the heights the school has reached.

The production is technically hugely demanding, but under the leadership of director Jim Rymer, musical director Cathy Brooks and choreographer Rebecca Crossley, the talented young people rose to the challenge magnificently.

The show flowed beautifully and the dancing, singing, music, confidence levels and teamwork were superb.

Watch out for the name of Sam Mitchell-Finnegan, who played the Cat in the Hat. He was awesome.

Mention must also be made of James Crocker (Horton), Jodie Quirke (JoJo), Naomi Day (Gertrude), Madeline Green-Armytage (Mayzie), Tom Balfour (the General) and Lydia Barber (the Kangaroo). If only there was space to list every performer.

The huge ovation at the end was richly deserved and the months of sweat and devotion - and sacrificed weekends and holidays - were truly worth it.

t Seussical continues nightly at Northgate High Shcool at 7.30pm until Saturday, March 4. There is also a 2.30pm matinee on Saturday. Box office 01362 697033.