CHARACTER BREAKDOWN
CAT IN THE HAT – He is the essence of mischief, fun and imagination. He stirs things up, causes trouble but always sets things right again. He and Jojo create the story of the show together. This role can be played by a male or female. Must be an excellent singer and actor with a brilliant sense of comic timing and improvisation skill.
JOJO – Jojo is a child anywhere between the ages of 8-12. He has a wild imagination. His “thinks” constantly get him into trouble. This role can be played by a male or female. Must be an excellent singer and actor.
HORTON THE ELEPHANT – A gentle giant who is very lovable and appealing. Think of him as a big-hearted blue collar guy who is very responsible and always tries to do the right things for his friends. Horton’s view of the world never changes – he believes in its goodness. Must be an excellent singer and actor.
GERTRUDE McFUZZ – A very self-conscious bird. She feels inadequate because her one-feather tail is not perfect. We see major changes in Gertrude through the course of the show. She stops being neurotic, nervous and shy and is willing to commit herself to Horton. In other words, she stops worrying about her looks and grows up. Actress must be an excellent singer and actor.
MAYZIE LA BIRD – Self centered, vain, and selfish. Mayzie will never admit to her own flaws. She manipulates everyone (especially Horton) into doing what she wants. But Mayzie is not all bad….she does have some moments of generosity. Must be an excellent singer, actor and dancer.
SOUR KANGAROO – She has TONS of attitude! She is loud, brassy and LOTS of fun. Must be a strong soul singer with a brassy voice and an excellent actor.
BABY KANGAROO – exactly like the Sour Kangaroo… but smaller!
MR. & MRS. MAYOR – Parents who are trying hard to raise a difficult child (JoJo) in a difficult world. These are GREAT character roles! They both must be STRONG singers and actors.
BIRD GIRLS – A back-up girls group of the jungle. Think “The Supremes.” They have attitude and must be strong singers capable of harmony and strong dancers.
WICKERSHAM’S – They are not bad guys! They are simply a lot like little kids who tease, play pranks and get a kick out of making mischief. These characters can be played by girls or guys. Must be strong singers and actors.
THE WHOS – They are a lot like us but SO small that they are almost invisible to the eye. They are NOT weird or munchkin-like, but real people, each with their own character. Except… they are small! Must have strong voices and be good movers.
ENSEMBLE: JUNGLE CREATURES, FISH, CAT HELPERS, YERTLE, CINDY LOU WHO, ETC. – Miscellaneous characters that have cameo appearances throughout the show. Like most of the characters in this show, they sing, dance and act!
