Few children’s books have stood the test of time quite like Dr Seuss’s 200-word masterpiece The Cat in the Hat.
The story is as popular now as it was in the 1950’s when Oxford University-educated Theodor ‘Seuss’ Geissel – listed as one of the top-selling children’s author of all-time – wrote the book.
Now both children and adults are sure to be left in raptures by this zany and imaginative stage show, that will bring the story to life on a 20-city, 40-show nationwide tour of theatres and arenas – including Hamilton’s Claudelands Arena.
The play was adapted for the stage in 2009 by the National Theatre of Great Britain, and tells the story consistent with the book, of a brother and sister, bored at home on a rainy day when they are visited by none other than The Cat in his red and white striped hat.
Their outspoken and outraged pet Fish (yip the fish talks…and is the babysitter!!) is astounded and concerned, but this cat will not be deterred. He will teach us all to make our own fun with nothing but a little imagination.
The Cat in the Hat recently made a guest appearance at the reopening of Hamilton City Libraries’ Central Library, and proved extremely popular with children on the day.
“We were thrilled to have The Cat in the Hat attend our reopening,” says Hamilton City Libraries Director Rebecca Whitehead.
“The children were entertained and engaged by his performance – and that reflects the constant popularity of the book and Dr Seuss’ stories.”
“We have five different copies of The Cat in the Hat, borrowed about 50 times a year. We even have non-loan copies in Te Reo and Latin!”
More than 12 months in the planning, The Cat in the Hat tour features a full-scale set of the house and more than 70 props the cast use to bring to life every detail of the well-known book.
More than 10,000 tickets have been sold so far for the tour.
- The Cat in the Hat, Claudelands Arena, Sunday September 30, 10am and 12.30pm. Tickets are available through Ticketek.