NBC’s yearly holiday special “Dr. Suess’ The Grinch musical” aired live on Wednesday December 9, 2020 at 8 pm. The hour and a half long musical featured Matthew Morrison as the Grinch and Denis O’Hare who narrated the “Grinch” story as Old Max throughout the new and original music selections that pay homage to the original while giving something for a new generation. The speaking roles are equally limited as the only other two actors named at top billing include Booboo Stewart as Young Max and relative newcomer, Amelia Minto as Cindy Lou Who.
Of course, one can’t perform any type of “Grinch” justice without the incomparable, “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” from the original Grinch Who Stole Christmas from 1966 and Denis O’Hare did a great job in leading this iconic song, with Booboo Stewart and Matthew Morrison as accompaniment. The song that was made popular from the 2000 Grinch, “Where are you Christmas?” surprised and entertained audiences as it gave a more heartfelt meaning of Christmas, sung by the “Who” cast members.
The stage was relatively simple as it stuck with the traditional style of hand drawn backgrounds so as not to take away from the talented singers and dancers on stage.
Overall, the whole musical had some unique moments from the iconic play on the traditional songs in a new way as well as from a play standpoint, there were a lot of third wall interruptions where both the Grinch as well as old Max took timeouts to speak directly to the audience.
While this particular musical wasn’t necessarily one of the best NBC has done during Christmastime, it is still one to give consideration to. There are certain parts that will have audiences everywhere singing at iconic moments and trying to hum along to the newest addition to the “Grinchy” story.
NBC’s Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Musical is currently streaming via a Hulu subscription for your viewing pleasure.