“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory.” - Dr. Seuss
These words ring ever so true as we culminate a journey together that began nearly fifteen weeks ago, each student beginning as an individual, and coming together to be a part of something bigger than themselves. The story of Seussical Jr. does what any good musical should – it entertains! It also accomplishes what great theater should by challenging us all to think. This show so quaintly combines so many of the well known Dr. Seuss stories, while highlighting the great life lessons embodied in those cute little books that we all know and love.
In every aspect of these stories, we are reminded about the true life lessons of the power of imagination, the value of friendship and the importance of being loyal. From JoJo reminding us to always think big, to Horton showing us loyalty and friendship through his dedication to saving the Who’s, we learn that truly “Anything is possible”.
But beneath all of the lights, the amazing Mayzie and the Sourness of the Kangaroo, perhaps the most important lesson of all from this story is to remember that “A person’s a person, no matter how small”. Part of thinking big like JoJo inspires us to do, is being willing to think outside of our personal sphere to pay attention and hear the small voices around us calling for help – the ignored, the unwanted, the helpless. It may not be a race of invisible Whos from Whoville or an abandoned egg up in a tree, but in every life and in every place there are those calling for help, that we don’t always hear. Horton’s story reminds us that every person is important, no matter who they are or where they come from – there are always opportunities to show kindness and to seize occasions to be of assistance to others. “And that is a story that no one can beat”.
While the Cat continuously uses humor as he reminds everyone “How Lucky You Are”, ultimately his message is the basic truth that each and every one of us has a choice to complain, or to recognize the gifts we are given on a regular basis and to be grateful. As a cast, crew and director group of over eighty people, we were reminded of these pretty great life lessons from the world’s silliest author during our journey together these past few months.
To our wonderful, hard working and amazing students,“You’re off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So… get on your way!” As this special experience comes and goes, always remember, “Don’t cry because it is over, smile because it happened.”
Parents, family and friends, thank you for sharing your children with us each and every day as they “think and wonder, wonder and think”. We sincerely hope that you enjoy Mill Middle School’s production of Seussical, Jr.!
Gratefully,
Mrs. Powers, Mrs. Olson, Mr. Tichy and Mrs. Trenchard
