Students at Free Will Baptist Christian School are preparing to take center stage in the school’s musical production of “Seussical KIDS,” a colorful and imaginative show inspired by the beloved works of Dr. Seuss.
The production, led by Fine Arts Director Philip A. Conner, marks a milestone for the school’s growing performing arts program.
“This is the end of my third year here, and this is our first-ever musical production,” Conner said. “The students have come such a long way.”
While the school has hosted previous performances — including a student-written Christmas production titled Christmas Through Our Eyes in 2023 and a sold-out holiday showcase in 2024 — this marks a new level of theatrical experience for students.
“Seussical KIDS” brings together iconic characters such as Horton the Elephant and the Cat in the Hat, while also introducing audiences to some of Dr. Seuss’s more whimsical creations. The family-friendly musical blends energetic songs, vibrant storytelling, and meaningful themes centered on friendship, empathy, and standing up for others.
Despite many of the 24 cast members having little to no prior theater experience, Connor said the students have embraced the challenge.
“We had auditions back in October and really started working in mid-January,” he explained. “Learning songs, choreography, and acting — it’s been a lot, but they’ve grown tremendously.”
The production is entirely extracurricular, requiring students and families to commit to rehearsals after school hours. Behind the scenes, a team of parents and volunteers supports costumes, lighting, and set design, transforming the school’s upper campus space into a full theater environment.
“It’s definitely a fun process, but by no means is it easy,” Conner said. “There are so many moving parts.”
Beyond the stage, Conner emphasized the deeper impact theater has had on students.
“I’ve already seen a newfound confidence in them,” he said. “Some students who were once shy are now speaking up, collaborating, and forming new friendships across grade levels.”
He noted that theater helps students develop communication skills, emotional awareness, and empathy — tools that extend far beyond performance.
“It goes much deeper than people realize,” Conner said. “They’re learning how to express themselves, understand others, and be confident in who they are.”
The experience has also opened doors for students to explore potential future paths in the arts.
“I think the goal is to give them a well-rounded education and expose them to different avenues,” he added. “But more importantly, it’s about helping them be authentically themselves in front of the world.”
Performances of Seussical KIDS will take place at the Free Will Baptist Christian School Upper Campus Auditorium on Friday, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, at 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Tickets are available online, and attendees are encouraged to purchase early as seating is limited.
With a mix of excitement and first-time jitters, students are eager to share the results of their hard work.
“Some parents might be surprised,” Conner said. “They may see their child – who’s never sung before – get on stage and belt out a tune.”
The school invites the community to join them for what promises to be a joyful journey through Whoville and beyond.
Tickets are available now and can be purchased by visiting freewillschool.com and clicking the ticketing link, or by clicking here.
