Young ACTors Bring the Magic of Dr. Seuss to Life

Published on July 13, 2026

Marco Island, FL –July 13, 2026 After just two weeks of creativity, collaboration, and hard work, the young performers of Marco Island Center for the Arts' Children's Summer Program are ready to take the stage with Seussical KIDS, a delightful 30-minute adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. Directed by Chris Dayett, this special production showcases the incredible accomplishments of 14 dedicated young "ACTors" who have immersed themselves in every aspect of theatrical production.

The two-week intensive theatre workshop is one of the many programs offered through the Marco Island Center for the Arts' Every Child Deserves Art initiative. Thanks to the generosity of community donors, all Children's Summer Programs are offered free of charge, ensuring every child has the opportunity to explore their creativity, discover new talents, and experience the transformative power of the arts regardless of financial circumstances.

Over the course of ten six-hour days, students receive an authentic behind-the-scenes theatre experience. They not only learn music, acting, and choreography, but also design and create the sets, costumes, and props that bring the production to life.

"Seussical KIDS is much more than putting on a show," said director Chris Dayett. "The students experience the entire creative process—from the first introduction to theatre through auditions, rehearsals, design, construction, and finally performance. Watching their confidence, creativity, and teamwork grow over just two weeks is one of the most rewarding parts of this program."

The musical weaves together many of the most beloved characters created by Dr. Seuss, with the heart of the story centered on Horton Hears a Who! and Horton Hatches the Egg. Filled with memorable songs, colorful characters, and timeless lessons about friendship, loyalty, imagination, and believing in yourself, Seussical KIDS offers entertainment for audiences of all ages.

This year's cast of talented young ACTors includes Lilah Barhoum, Sophia Bellini, Ava Craig, Meghan Dolan, Imogen Goodman-Williams, Madelyn Goodman-Williams, Addie Grachus, Arina Ignashkin, Finn Kolosso, Cassie Rianna, Jackie Smid, Kim Tran, Ali Traver, and Landon Westlund.

The workshop begins with students learning about the world of theatre while being introduced to the musical. After learning songs from the show, participants explore the script, audition for their favorite roles, and begin rehearsals. As the production takes shape, mornings are dedicated to staging scenes while afternoons become bustling creative studios where students paint scenery, build props, and design costumes. During the second week, rehearsals intensify as lighting, technical elements, and final details are added before the cast presents the finished production.

This year's workshop has also benefited from the support of several outstanding student volunteers. Members of Marco Island Academy's Thespian Troupe 8628 have donated their time and talents as part of the troupe's community service efforts toward earning its Honor Troupe Banner. Joaquin Perez has worked closely with students on acting techniques, while Ari Kuperman has collaborated with Arts Center Theatre Technical Director Ron Clark to design the production's lighting. Workshop alumnus Braeden Rianna has also returned to assist with backstage organization and scenic painting, helping inspire the next generation of young performers.

Programs like this are only possible because of the generosity of individuals, businesses, foundations, and community organizations who support Every Child Deserves Art. Their commitment allows the Marco Island Center for the Arts to provide high-quality arts education experiences that inspire creativity, build confidence, and foster lifelong appreciation for the arts—all at no cost to participating children.

Family, friends, and members of the community are invited to celebrate the accomplishments of these talented young ACTors as they bring the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss to life in this fun-filled production.

Performance Information

Seussical KIDS

Saturday, July 18, 2026

Performances at 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Arts Center Theatre

1089 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 432

Marco Town Center (look for the red door next to Marco Brewery)

Admission: $10

Tickets are available online at https://www.marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/ or by calling the Arts Center Theatre Box Office at 239-784-1186.

Don't miss this heartwarming production celebrating the imagination of Dr. Seuss and the remarkable achievements of these talented young performers. In just ten days, these young ACTors transform from theatre students into a full production company—proving that with creativity, dedication, and teamwork, anything is possible.

About Marco Island Center for the Arts

Marco Island Center for the Arts brings a wide variety of arts to its community through art exhibitions, engaging educational programs for adults and children and a diverse assortment of events. The Arts Center Theatre offers both produced and presented theater productions as well as other live entertainment. The Art Center and its theater serve as professional and financial drivers for visual and performing artists and educators through exhibition, performance and teaching opportunities while being a catalyst that fuels economic development, an understanding of cultural diversity and community cohesion.