Welcome, Christmas: Grinch, With Karl, Larroquette, Edwards, Gurwin and More, Opens in L.A.

By Kenneth Jones
and Allison Klamkin
14 Nov 2009

Grinch stars John Larroquette and Stefan Karl
Grinch stars John Larroquette and Stefan Karl

Stefan Karl is the title grouch in the Los Angeles premiere of Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, opening Nov. 14 at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood.

Karl dons green fur and makeup, reprising the part that he played in Baltimore and Boston in 2008. Los Angeles previews began Nov. 10. Performances run through Jan. 3, 2010. Karl replaced Christopher Lloyd, who was originally announced for this staging.

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Theatre, film and television star John Larroquette plays the role of Old Max, and James Royce Edwards plays Young Max — the Grinch's persecuted pooch.

Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical features the beloved songs "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" and "Welcome Christmas" from the original animated TV special. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is "two sizes too small," decides to steal Christmas away from holiday-loving Whos of Whoville.

Karl, Larroquette and Edwards are joined by Kayley Stallings and Issadora Tulalian (sharing the role of Cindy Lou Who), Melinda Gilb as Mama Who, Danny Gurwin as Papa Who, Rosemary Loar as Grandma Who, and Stuart Zagnit as Grandpa Who. Adult ensemble members include Eric Anthony, Heather Barr, Alex Chester, Janet Dickinson, Antoinette DiPietropolo, Jennie Ford, Dennis Kenney, Shanon Mari Mills, Candice Nicole, Josephine Rose Roberts, Joe Souza, and Pearl Sun. Child ensemble members include Michael William Arnold, Isabella Briscoe, Maddie Levy, Molly Livingston, Quinton Lopez, Terren Mueller, Lindsay Ryan, Molly Ryan, Gracie Stover and Terrance Thomas.

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is based on the original book written by Dr. Seuss and is conceived and supervised by three-time Tony Award winner, Jack O' Brien. It is directed by Matt August and choreographed by Bob Richard with original choreography by John DeLuca. Book and lyrics are by Timothy Mason with music by Mel Marvin and additional music and lyrics by Albert Hague and Dr. Seuss. The associate producer is Audrey Geisel.

The production features scenic design by John Lee Beatty, costume design by Robert Morgan, lighting design by Pat Collins, and orchestrations by Michael Starobin. Sound design is by Acme Sound Partners.

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical plays Hollywood's Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Boulevard at Vine Street.

Tickets range in price from $25-$90. Performance schedules vary and tickets can be purchased online at BroadwayLA.org or by calling (800) 982-ARTS (2787).