A cherished quote by Spanish painter Pablo Picasso, "Every child is an artist," resonates deeply with Desiree Cantu, a theater arts educator at Metro Elementary School of Design. She finds joy and magic in nurturing children's creativity and equipping them with the skills to express themselves artistically. This passion is on full display as her current students prepare to star in the school’s spring showcase of "Seussical Jr." The performances are scheduled for Friday evening and Saturday afternoon and evening at the school campus. Admission is donation-based, offering an inclusive opportunity for audiences to engage with the vibrant world of Dr. Seuss through this junior adaptation of the classic musical.
Inspired by the whimsical tales of Dr. Seuss, "Seussical Jr." weaves together narratives from stories such as "Horton Hears a Who!" and "Gertrude McFuzz" into a captivating theatrical experience. Among the talented young cast is sixth-grader Evelyn Sefcik, who embodies Gertrude McFuzz, a bird character conscious of her modest plumage. For Sefcik, joining the theater troupe in third grade marked the beginning of a journey where she found a second home. She passionately shares that the story they tell is beautiful and relatable, urging everyone to experience its charm.
Fifth-grader Liam Stewart takes on the role of Jojo, a character brimming with imagination. This production holds special significance for Stewart, as his initial exposure to theater was through "Seussical the Musical." He humorously acknowledges his growth and credits the lessons learned from this show for enhancing his acting abilities. Stewart emphasizes the emotional depth of the performance, suggesting it has the potential to impact lives and impart valuable lessons.
Cantu has been instrumental in shaping these young artists over nearly four years. Witnessing their evolution into confident performers fills her with emotion. She cherishes being part of their developmental journey and seeing them pursue their aspirations. Stewart affectionately refers to Cantu as his "aunt by love," highlighting her profound influence on his dreams of becoming an actor. Inspired by Cantu's dedication, Sefcik envisions herself as a future theater arts teacher, aiming to inspire and support young talents much like Cantu does for her.
Sefcik admires Cantu's unwavering support and care, likening her to a mother figure. Whether facing challenges or celebrating successes, Cantu remains a constant presence in her students' lives. Her guidance not only enhances their artistic abilities but also nurtures their personal growth. As the curtain rises on "Seussical Jr.," the audience is invited to witness the transformative power of art through the eyes and hearts of these young performers.