REVIEW: Seussical

I do not like green eggs and ham, but by goodness you will love Seussical at

Phoenix Ensemble!

Phoenix Ensemble, Beenleigh

Friday 6 November, 2026

Following the story of JoJo, a true thinker, accompanied by the ever iconic Cat in the Hat, Seussical takes the audience on a journey through all things Dr Seuss. The main plot follows the story of everyone’s favourite elephant Horton and his devotion to the protection of the Who’s, but there are a plethora of easter eggs and references to other iconic Dr Seuss favourites throughout the production.

Phoenix Ensemble’s production of Seussical is full of whimsy, ridiculousness, and over the top Seuss-ness! From the moment they enter the theatre, the audience is transported to the world of Dr Seuss as they are greeted by a set covered in classic Dr Seuss artworks, a Cat in the Hat striped chair, and every kids dream bunk bed (the top bunk is a slide!).

Direction by Kristen Barros was fantastic, with the intimate nature of the Phoenix Ensemble theatre being used effectively, and the staging of all the fantastical settings cleverly executed throughout the production. It is clear Barros worked hard with the actors to create over-the-top characters that were still grounded within themselves, with every actor committing 100% to their roles, no matter how ridiculous the circumstances.

The vocals throughout were excellent, Hayley Marsh has done a wonderful job working with the cast to achieve beautiful harmonies throughout the show. Going beyond just singing the score, there were moments throughout where the use of specific vocal timbre’s and styles were used to add even more comedy and whimsy to the production (including a sneaky impression of a certain famous jazz singer). Whilst the balance of the tracks with the vocalists mics was sometimes a bit off, resulting in some missed lyrics, the clearly worked on diction of the cast ensured that the majority of the lyrics were still heard.

Hannah Crowther’s choreography masterfully captured the absurdity of the production, keeping the energy high throughout and using sharp clean moves to  bring life to every number. Key songs like Biggest Blame Fool and Here on Who were particular show stoppers, with repetitive motifs and moves derived from sign language that were so polished an audience member could walk out the theatre performing them.

Another stand out part of the production was the costuming, designed by Georgina Purdie and created by costume team Kylara Swain, Emma Parkinson and Daniel Rodriguez, which maintained a cohesive aesthetic of Seuss-Like-Whimsy, whilst still ensuring every character had their own style. Humanising animals is always a tricky thing costume wise for theatre, but the team did an excellent job of giving a nod to the original character, yet keeping the overall look “human”.

This show’s strong production team’s skills are exemplified by the wonderful cast they had performing in the show. Milo White as Jojo was an excellent balance of rosy-cheeked bright eyed positivity, and a more real, human (or who-man) yearning. With fantastic stage presence and a voice clear as a bell, his duet with Ella Bordeaux’s Horton, Alone in the Universe, was a beautiful serious moment of connection in an otherwise otherworldly production. As Horton Bordeaux was a very consistent and grounding presence in a world of chaos, her energy matched that of the more outlandish characters, and she conveyed the heart-on-his-sleeve sweet natured elephant beautifully.

Zach Price as the iconic Cat in the Hat was a stand out, serving as the conduit for the story and the ringmaster of chaos, Price’s unending energy kept the production sailing along. His ability to command attention, switch between a multitude of hilarious stereotypes (news presenter, air-traffic reporter, constable to name a few), and engage the audience made him the perfect choice for this role. His strong vocals and excellent rapport with his fellow cast, as well as the ability to learn an insane amount of nonsensical Seuss-based lyrics, are to be commended as well.

Vivien Wood as Gertrude McFuzz and Grace Clarke as Mayzie La Bird were absolute show stealers! Wood’s rendition of Notice Me Horton was hilarious, and her journey from shy little one feathered bird through to finding her own confidence was excellently executed, alongside some killer vocals. Clarke as Mayzie was impossible to keep your eyes off, and not just due to their feathered headdress. She embodied the flirty, jazzy, all round spectacular Mayzie with an experienced ease, using the full range of their voice, body, and facial expressions to bring her to life.

Kaylee Starre and Emma Hodis as the Mayor and Mrs Mayor brought a beautiful energy to the world of Whoville. Starre conveyed the firm yet loving Mayor with a gentle yet quirky sincerity, alongside Hodis’ rather chaotic Mrs. Mayor, the pair brought life to every scene they were in.

Alicia Brite as the Sour Kangaroo, alongside Ammi Johnson as her Joey, were a spectacular duo with miles of sass and killer vocals to back it up. Shaugn Mitchell’s General Schmitz was an absolute stand out, and their rendition of The Military a highlight of act one. Their commitment to the absurdity of the number, as well as their impressive vocals and high kicks, had the audience in stitches.

The backbone of this show was its ensemble, with actors portraying a multitude of roles throughout the production and giving each and every one its own special flair. From animals of Nool to circus performers, everyone got their own moment, and the consistency across their vocals and choreography elevated every scene they were in. Not only did the ensemble work well to support each scene they were in, but they also found ways to have their own moment in the spotlight! Of particular note was Michael Nelson’s Grinch impression where he fully embodied the iconic character in his voice and physicality, as well as the trio of birds accompanying Mayzie (Isabel Kraemer, Jemma Skelly and Georgia Waters) with their fabulous choreography and perfect showgirl performances.

All in all, Seussical is a fantastic night out for all, the production will transport you to the wonderful whimsical world of Dr Seuss, and have you laughing the whole night long. Whether you are an adult or a child, there is no age limit on joy, so support this fantastic local production, because a theatre’s a theatre no matter how small! Tickets Here! Seussical Tickets, The Tin Shed, Beenleigh | TryBooking Australia