Fredericksburg, Va—Seussical Jr. brings together all of Dr. Seuss' most well-known and well-loved characters, including the Lorax and Sam I Am. For STEP VA, the local 501(c)3 non-profit that “empowers people with disabilities and their families through creative expression and sensory exploration,” Jack Barker and Leo Scrivani, respectively, are stepping up to fill those roles.
Though cast as the Lorax—his favorite character, of course—Barker's favorite song in the show is “Green Eggs and Ham.”
Barker and Scrivani were both members of the Peanuts Gang in “You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” and Barker, a veteran of STEP VA summer sessions, returned for the Spring Musical experience again this year because he loves “singing with friends.” Barker also is excited about performing for an audience.
While his role as the Lorax is one that is easily recognizable, Barker hasn't stopped to worry about the role or his performance on stage. Described by his cast mates as “happy,” Barker's mom relates that when he arrives at the weekly rehearsals she's noticed that “his face [lights] up when he sees his STEP VA friends. He truly enjoys being a part of a team and seeing his friends shine.”
Scrivani, who is more quiet and reserved than Barker, has much in common with his cast mate. He, too, returned this year because he likes that he “gets to meet and make new friends.” He also picked “Green Eggs and Ham” as his favorite song in the show and enjoys the dance that goes with it. For Scrivani learning choreography can be a challenge, but that hasn't stopped him from having fun with the experience. It also allows him to sing, which is something he enjoys, along with video games, Legos and visiting Chick-fil-A. He says his favorite Dr. Seuss books are both “The Lorax” and “Green Eggs and Ham,” so taking on the role of Sam I Am—his favorite character—has made this year's musical experience that much sweeter.
Come see Barker and Scrivani light up the stage in “Seussical Jr.” at Courtland High School on April 13 at 6 p.m. and April 14 at 3 p.m. CLICK HERE for tickets, or visit www.stepva.org for more information.
***
STEP VA, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides sensory-based theater and arts programs for individuals with disabilities. Its vision is to transform the world by offering each individual the opportunity to flourish in the community.