Oh, the things you can think when you open your eyes, because a whimsical wonder is about to arise! Western Illinois University’s SummerStage 2026 is bringing the fantastical world of Dr. Seuss straight to the local stage with “Seussical The Musical” this July.
The production will take over the Hainline Theatre for three spectacular showtimes: Friday, July 17 at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, July 18 with a double-feature at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
If you want to join in on this rhyming, musical ride, here is the scoop on the cast and the pricing inside: From the Jungle of Nool to the planet of Who, a marvelous cast is preparing for you!
Andrew Winder will step out in front as the Cat, with a mischievous grin and a tall striped hat. Alexander Kluesner is Horton, so big and so kind, while young Theodore Miguel plays JoJo, you’ll find.
Scarlett Brooks plays Gertrude, with tail-feather blues, and Alyssa Shockency is Mayzie—such marvelous news. The Sour Kangaroo will be Azaria Foshay, while Kluesner pulls double as Mayor, they say!
Talena Sprecher is Mrs. the Mayor, quite grand, as General Genghis Kahn Schmitz (Tyler Lucas) commands. There are Wickersham Brothers and Bird Girls who fly, and Karsyn Dorethy as Yertle up high.
Samuel McGruder plays Grinch and some others, it's true. While Nelson Padgett plays Vlad Vladikoff for you. With Who's in the town and a Jungle crowd too, and Circus Performers, Hunches, and Fish in the blue—they’ve gathered the talent right here in Macomb, to bring all these wonderful stories right home.
Tickets go on sale online beginning July 1 at www.westernpresents.com. Theatergoers can also call 309-298-2900 or visit the WIU Box Office located in the Hainline Lobby. General admission tickets are priced at $25, and tickets for seniors and students are available for $20. So do not sit home on a log or a mat—go secure your seat for the Cat in the Hat!
