Several of the participants are veteran cast and crew members from previous summer shows.

Sara Seagle, who plays Mrs. Mayor and girl bird, landed her first part in “Annie” in 2004. After that, she said there was never any question that she would participate in subsequent shows.

“There are so many wonderful people involved in both the TLT and TFAC ends of the spectrum, and something can be learned from every one of them,” said 17-year-old Seagle, who plans to pursue a career in musical theater.

The only summer Seagle did not audition for a part was for the 2011 production of “Pippin.” She and Alexa Hughes, who has been involved with the summer youth shows since “Annie” when she was 9 years old, worked as co-stage managers for that production.

“I passed up the opportunity to audition for ‘Pippin’ to work backstage, but, when the audition date came out this year, I couldn’t pass up this show. I missed the stage too much!” said Hughes, who plays Gertrude McFuzz.

One of the professional veterans of the summer youth productions is Lena Duncan, who has offered her talents as musical director for the past six years. Beginning with “The Sound of Music,” she has served as musical director for “Beauty and the Beast,” “Cats,” “Les Miserables,” “Aida” and “Pippin.”

Duncan said the summer youth show has grown to become a much-anticipated production for our entire community.

“We strive to provide the cast of the summer youth production the same quality and professional experience that TLT is known to produce,” she said.
Over the years, the TLT play selection committee has selected challenging and thought-provoking shows that appeal to all ages, TLT said. According to Duncan, “Seussical” is no different.

“As the stories blend into one tale, the SEUSSICAL score blends many musical styles: Latin, pop, swing, gospel and even a little R&B and funk. You won’t be able to resist a few toe taps and finger snaps,” said Duncan.

Tamisiea agrees. With the combination of the music and the story, which encourages thinking and imagination and teaches that humility, honesty and a good heart will take you far in life, she said she believes this year’s show will have a wonderful and inspiring impact on those who watch it.

“In a word, ‘Seussical’ is magical,” said Tamisiea.

For information about “Seussical,” call 828-859-2466 or visit www.tltifo.org.