Whoville has found its citizens. Ken Land, Gilbert L. Bailey II, Philip Hoffman and more will join Broadway vet Jeff McCarthy as the Grinch in Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas this holiday season. The new production will begin performances December 13 at the Theater at Madison Square Garden. Featuring a book and lyrics by Timothy Mason, music by Mel Marvin and directed by Matt August, How the Grinch Stole Christmas will play a limited engagement through December 30.
In addition to McCarthy as the Grinch, Land as Old Max, Bailey as Young Max and Hoffman as Grandpa Who, How the Grinch Stole Christmas stars Paul Aguirre as Papa Who, Natalie Hill as Mama Who, Rosemary Loar as Grandma Who, Danielle Megan Johnson and Zara Scott alternating the role of Annie Who, and Tori Feinstein and Abigail Shapiro alternating the role of Cindy-Lou Who. The Grinch ensemble includes William Bailey, Jamie Beth Barton, Alex Chester, Matt Densky, Antoinette Dipietropolo, Amy Griffin, Jamey Hood, Liesel Jaye, Dennis Kenney, Ivory McKay, Candice Nicole, Shane Rhoades, Anette Michelle Sanders, Jamison Stern, Heather Tepe and Lilly Tobin.
Based on the classic Dr. Seuss tale of the same name, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is the story of a green curmudgeonly creature who lives on a mountain above Whoville. When he is bothered by the loud Christmas celebrations going on in town, the Grinch attempts to keep Christmas from happening by posing as Santa Claus and stealing children’s gifts. The musical includes the classic hits “Welcome Home, Christmas” and “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” Originaly conceived and directed by Jack O’Brien at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego, the production transferred to Broadway’s Hilton Theatre on November 8, 2006.
McCarthy’s Broadway credits include Chicago, Urinetown, The Pirate Queen, Side Show, Beauty and the Beast, Smile and Zorba. Land has appeared on Broadway in Victor/Victoria, The Scarlet Pimpernel and Promises, Promises. Bailey has appeared in regional productions of The Scottsboro Boys and High School Musical 2. Hoffman’s Broadway credits include On a Clear Day You Can See Forever, A Catered Affair, Fiddler on the Roof, Ring Around the Moon, the Scarlet Pimpernel, Falsettos, Into the Woods, Baby, Is There Life After High School? and The Moony Shapiro Songbook.