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Step into the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss as 7th Street Community Theatre presents "Seussical the Musical," a production where imagination takes center stage and the boundaries between reality and fantasy beautifully blur.

This episode of Steps to the Stage takes listeners behind the curtain with the creative team bringing this beloved show to life. At the heart of this production is Mickey Estrella, making her directorial debut with the very show that sparked her theatrical journey as a child performer in 2013. Now studying directing at Hofstra University, Mickey returns to her theatrical home to guide a new generation of performers through the colorful worlds of Horton, JoJo, and the Cat in the Hat.

"This show is about having fun and creativity and where your imagination can take you," Mickey explains, highlighting the production's focus on childlike wonder and unbridled creativity. Working alongside co-director Xochitl Neri and musical director Juan Valazquez, the team has assembled a diverse cast of performers ranging from age 4 to 20, creating a vibrant ensemble that embodies the spirit of community theater.

The conversation explores fascinating technical elements, from the rotating set pieces that transform between Whoville and the Jungle of Nool to the deliberately stylized costumes that suggest character without overpowering the performers. Juan discusses the challenges and joys of working with varied musical styles, while the team celebrates the production's remarkable preparedness – having completed full run-throughs three weeks before opening night.

What emerges is a beautiful story of theatrical mentorship and growth, where performers become directors, students become teachers, and community theater fulfills its mission of nurturing talent that returns to enrich the very place where their artistic journey began. Don't miss "Seussical the Musical" running August 8-23 at the Chino Community Theatre – tickets are selling fast for this celebration of creativity, community, and the power of imagination!

Experience the magic for yourself! Grab tickets at ChinoChildrensTheater.org, follow @CCCTbuzz on social media, or support these emerging artists by calling the box office at 909-590-1149.

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