At the end of every year since 1998, a furry green grump has schlepped out of his cave in San Diego to learn the true meaning of Christmas. No, that's not an avant-garde A Christmas Carol, but the Globe Theatre's How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Timothy Mason and Mel Marvin's musical adaptation of the Dr. Seuss classic children's book. Grinch returns Nov. 11-Dec. 31.

Returning in his lead role as The Grinch is the Christmas-stealer himself, Guy Paul. Also reprising their roles are Rusty Ross (Young Max), Julian Gamble (Old Max), Melinda Gilb (Mama Who), Mary Frances McClay (Cindy Lou Who), Christopher Lange (Danny Who), Danny McCarthy (Boo Who), Eileen Bowman (Grandma Who) and Robert MacAuley (Grandpa Seth Who).

Also in the cast are Scott Dreier (J.P. Who), Charlotte Wen (Betty Who) and Melani Greenberg Glassman (Annie Who). Arianna Ayesha Asfar will share the role of Cindy Lou Who with McClay.

Seuss was the author of several children's books including "Hop on Pop," "One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish," and "Horton Hears a Who." The Grinch, is one of Seuss' best known characters, not only from the book, but from an animated television special which is an annual holiday favorite and a 2000 live action movie starring Jim Carey as the Grinch.

As the company did in 1999, the Old Globe will make 4,000 tickets available for free to children throughout San Diego County as a gift from the San Diego Union-Tribune and Audrey Geisel, Dr. Seuss' widow. Also, all children, seventeen and under, are admitted for half price. The fantastical set and costumes are designed by John Lee Beatty and Robert Morgan. Pat Collins designed the lighting.

For tickets and information call (619) 239-2255 or visit www.oldglobe.org.

— By Christine Ehren