The Cast Photo by Jeremy Daniel

This musical adaptation is based on the 1957 Dr. Seuss book and the well-known animated special that premiered in 1966. The Whos down in Whoville love Christmas, but the Grinch, who lives in a cave outside of town, hates the festivities and the joy the day brings to the town's residents. He sets out to steal Christmas from the Whos, with the reluctant help of his dog Max.

Timothy Mason wrote the book for the stage version. To bring the show to a full 90-minute running time, Mr. Mason has added plenty of stage time for the Whos, as well as a lot of showbiz razzmatazz for the Grinch. The ideas for the new material are strong, but some are somewhat underdeveloped and come across as filler. Still, the familiar parts of the story are well told and there's a great deal of humor and goodwill that capture the spirit of the source material. When the Grinch first appears, Mr. Mason smartly presents him in a silly, buffoonish manner which, while still showing him as a meanie, is funny enough to put the younger theatregoers at ease. He also effectively uses an elderly version of the Grinch's dog Max to serve as the narrator of the show.

The score incorporates the famous songs from the cartoon, along with new songs featuring music by Mel Marvin and lyrics by Mason. The new songs boast lyrics with playful rhymes in the style of Dr. Seuss, and music which, though not overly memorable, is tuneful and pleasant. However, the only song you're likely to be singing leaving the theater is the famous "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" by Albert Hague (music) and Dr. Seuss (lyrics).

As the Grinch, Joshua Woodie aptly hams up every line and lyric, and his over-the-top mannerisms, devilish line deliveries, and physical embodiment of the fiendish malcontent are fun and all one could wish for in the role. Likewise turning in a commendable performance is W. Scott Stuart as Old Max. Mr. Stuart brings first-rate stage presence and supplies warmth to balance out the mean antics of the Grinch, and he sings the aforementioned "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch" superbly. Xavier McKnight is a spirited Young Max in a role that requires great physical exertion. Also providing worthwhile performances in support are Mila Jaymes (Cindy-Lou Who), Nick Drivas (Papa Who), Rachel Gubow (understudy for Mama Who), Barbara Bayes (Grandma Who), and Brian Rooney (Grandpa Who).

Matt August and Bob Richard serve as co-directors for this tour, replicating much of original Broadway director Jack O'Brien's work. A Seuss-style tone, smooth transitions, and audience-friendly blocking are all present. The direction incorporates some fun stage antics, plenty of props, and a few bits of cute puppetry to provide variety. The entire cast does well in portraying these eccentric characters and executing the fitting zany, off-kilter choreography by John DeLuca, recreated on tour by Bob Richard. Musical director Christopher Babbage leads a great sounding 10-piece orchestra playing well-suited orchestrations by Michael Starobin.

The whimsical sets by John Lee Beatty, as well as Robert Morgan's costumes in red, pink, and white, instantly recall the Dr. Seuss book illustrations and the animated designs while having sufficient originality as well. The lighting by Craig Stelzenmuller is professional and features a number of interesting effects.

A talented cast and a good-hearted story make Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas perfect, fun family fare this Christmas season. With an early start time of 7pm on weekdays and a running time of just 90 minutes, the kids can get home by bedtime, even on a school night.

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas runs through December 15, 2024 at the Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati OH. For tickets and information, call 513-621-2787 or visit cincinnati.broadway.com. For more information on the tour, visit https://www.grinchmusical.com/tour.