KIDDSTUFF Presents SEUSSICAL JR.

From Thursday, July 9 to Saturday, August 11, audiences can enjoy the Hangar's Next Generation School of Theatre production of Seussical Jr., directed by Hangar Education Director and Artistic Associate, Nathan Norcross.

Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty's adaptation of various Dr. Seuss creations spring to life onstage in a fantastical, musical extravaganza. Focusing on the journey of two ostracized "thinkers" who withstand the oppressive currents of conformity as they fight to protect their radical empathy, creativity and hope. In the end, the characters learn that support often comes when and from where you least expect it; unlocking the greatest support of all, a belief in one's self.

"The piece is a well-crafted 70-minute nearly sung-through musical, so our student actors have been thrust into the challenge of rehearsing a musical in much the same way as the professional actors on our mainstage," Norcross says. "They have risen to the challenge! It is such a joy to see their hard work pay off when they can let loose and revel in the energy of their ensemble."

The Hangar Theatre Company is grateful for premiere sponsor of Seussical Jr, Northeast Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine with Associate Sponsor, Ithaca Community Childcare Center. The KIDDSTUFF series sponsors are Guthrie, Wegmans and Ithaca Child.

Now in its 44th season, the Hangar produces quality theatrical and education programs for Ithaca, Tompkins County and the Finger Lakes region. In 2018 a new logo and identity was established for the Hangar Theatre Company to distinguish between programs staged at the hangar and those produced by the Hangar Theatre Company. Hangar Theatre Company produces five shows each summer, one holiday winter production, and a variety of innovative theatre-based offerings throughout the year as well as a renowned education program.

Hangar Theatre's Next Generation School of Theatre consists of fun-filled summer classes that offer students in grades 2-12 (Fall 2018) an unforgettable learning experience in the arts. With a wide variety of classes, the kids learn from professional artists who work nationally in the performing arts and teach the most current techniques in their disciplines. Sessions are held at Ithaca High School, or Boynton Middle School.