NBC plays Matthew Morrison in “Dr. Seuss” The Grinch Musical! “- Deadline

NBC is inviting the Grinch to share its holiday season – the network will broadcast a two-hour production The Grinch Musical by Dr. Seuss! on December 9th. Staged at London’s Troubadour Theater, music production will be the star GleeMatthew Morrison as the little Grinch and Denis O’Hare as his hapless mutt Max (with Descendants 3’s Booboo Stewart as young Max.

“In what has been an extremely busy year for all of us,” said Morrison, “it’s an honor to bring some Christmas cheer to viewers’ homes this December. My wish is to bring some Who-ville magic. in this holiday season, and as the pandemic presents some challenges in bringing a theatrical production to life, we are thrilled to present a unique take on this seasonal favorite in a creative and imaginative new way. “

The musical, with book and lyrics by Tim Mason and music by Mel Marvin and with the hit songs “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” (by Albert Hague and Dr. Seuss) played on Broadway during the 2006 and 2007 holiday seasons.

In the NBC version, the character of Cindy-Lou Who will be played by the young newcomer Amelia Minto. The producers also assembled an ensemble of actors from London’s West End musicals to round out the cast.

“Dr. Seuss is an indelible part of all our lives and we are thrilled to bring a theatrical production of The Grinch Musical! to our audience, “said Doug Vaughan, Executive Vice President, Special Programs, NBC Entertainment.” This is a perfect addition to the traditions of our annual vacation program and a TV show that the whole family will enjoy. “

The staging is by director Max Webster and Julia Knowles directs for television. Additional material for the script is by Simon Nye, with sets by designer Peter Bingemann.

Previous musicals staged in recent years by NBC The Sound of Music, Peter Pan, The Wiz, Hairspray is Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert.

Although Morrison has become a household name on Glee, he has extensive theatrical experience, including roles on Broadway Footloose, Hairspray, is The light in the square. More recently, Morrison played the role of JM Barrie in the Broadway musical In search of the Neverland. Additional TV credits include The good wife, Grey’s Anatomy is American Horror Story: 1984.

The Grinch musical by Dr. Seuss is presented in association with Dr. Seuss Enterprises and Running Subway, produced by Penny Lane Entertainment Television and Simon Friend Entertainment. Lee Connolly, Simon Friend, Joshua Rosenblum and James Sanna are executive producers. Morrison is also the producer of the telecast.

The Grinch Musical by Dr. Seuss! will air on NBC December 9 at 8 pm ET / PT from the Troubadour Theater in London.

The musical event was announced this morning on Today to exhibit:

.@ NBC a two-hour production of “Dr. Seuss “The Grinch Musical” on December 9 at 8pm ET / PT. pic.twitter.com/S6nVKWP9rl

– TODAY (@TODAYshow) November 10, 2020