In November of 2015, Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical was the last musical I saw with my mother before her Alzheimers took control and the first visit to the theatre with my son. It is a memory I hope to hold forever. And while I wouldn't call myself a "Grinch" I have been known to be a bit cranky in the mornings before my coffee, which has resulted in me being gifted numerous "Grinch" related tree ornaments and accessories like socks and t-shirts, over the years.
So, when the opportunity was presented to interview The Grinch before his arrival in Chicago, I could not pass it up! And I am not sure if it was because the weather was particularly grey & gloomy that day, but the Grinch was even (do I dare say!) kind enough to answer some questions from a few local Macaroni Kids in Chicago. So I present to you - - -
🎄 20 Questions with The Grinch 🎄
Do you think Dr. Seuss portrayed you fairly in his book?
The book is a rather accurate portrayal of my personality but he didn’t mention how much I love to SING and DANCE. You’ll have to come to see the musical for that!
What do you hope people learn from your story?
I hope people learn my story is all about MEEEEEEE. If you see the show, you’ll see a lot of me, and people singing about ME, and ME singing about ME. I hope people learn that Christmas is MORE than about presents and toys. It’s about family and community! AND THOSE THINGS ARE HARDER TO STEAL!!!!
Is there anyone or anything more annoying than a Who?
CHRISTMAS! It’s just noise noise noise and a whole lot of nonsense and joy about nothing at all. I find it all rather unnecessary, and I like to visit cities around the country to remind everyone of this. Then I visit their theaters and steal all the presents.
What is the one thing you would like to get for Christmas?
For Christmas to be canceled indefinitely.
What is your favorite part of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical"
Oh gosh, I’d have to say my SHOW STOPPER OF A NUMBER! "ONE OF A KIND" IS MY FAVORITE SONG BECAUSE IT IS ABOUT ME AND STARRING ME. There is a song on the fireplace with Cindy Lou that all the mommas boo hoo about. And in the end she…well….I won’t spoil it. But she’s a sweet little girl.
Who is a better singer? Cindy, Max or You?
I am the STAR of the show. I am definitely the best singer, the best dancer, and the best grouch. Cindy and Max do a great job of highlighting my numerous talents.
Who should come to see you at The Chicago Theatre? Adults, Kids or Both?
Both! My musical is the perfect show for Whos tall and small. The show celebrates all of the things I hate: happiness, joy and spending time with loved ones. You should come to see it if you enjoy those things.
Where do you go to in a busy city like Chicago to feel at home?
If I close my eyes hard enough, the top of the Willis Tower feels a whole lot like the top of Mt. Crumpit. But only when I sneak up there after the crowds leave!
Which restaurant has the best Roast Beast in Chicago?
I love deep dish pizza almost as much as I love Roast Beast…but don’t tell the Whos. I told Dr. Seuss to include this in the book (but I suppose he forgot).
Do you have any advice for dealing with a cranky “Grinch”?
Show a little love and compassion to anyone Grinch-y in your life.
Now for the Junior Mac Kids Questions!
Why are you so mean?
Well, they say my heart is two sizes too small. They compare me to a cactus and an eel, and I think that is lovely. I take no offense to these comparisons. I personally love eel! BUT, there is one fix that always seems to do the trick. When I meet that adorable little Cindy Lou…I don’t know how or why, but she is just so darn sweet - she ALMOST makes me believe in Chr… Chris... I can’t even say it.
Where did you grow up?
I live most of the year on Mt. Crumpet, but come out of my cave with my dog Max and tour the country stealing Christmas every year. Then I go back and live a very simple life. And I sleep a lot.
Have you always been hairy & green?
I was born this way, baby!
Where did you find Max? Did you adopt him or buy him?
I adopted Max. He is the best sidekick around, but he’s a mush for the Who’s. He helps me though and acts as a reindeer when I go to and from stealing presents. He also tells my story in the musical. All about our years of adventures together. You’ll see him too if you come to see us!
What does Roast Beast taste like?
Hopes and dreams.
What games did you like to play as a kid?
I didn't play a lot of games growing up. I didn't have many friends and I was an only child. Now I just like to steal things.
Do you really have bugs in your teeth? How did they get there?
WHO TOLD YOU THAT!!!
How is your heart? Is it too small or too big now?
It was too small - now I think it's too big. What do you think?
GO CUBS GOOOOO!
What did you dress up as for Halloween?
I am GRINCH all day, every day-- 365 days of the year.
CLICK HERE to see "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical"
at The Chicago Theatre Tickets up to 30% off!
November 16th - 25th
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