For a series of sold-out performances in February, an incredibly talented, 31-member cast of teens and pre-teens rocked the SALT Performing Arts stage with the rollicking Seussical, Jr., a musical extravaganza from Tony Award winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty.

Transporting audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat (played by Nick Spallone) narrated the story of Horton the Elephant (played by Jason Scansaroli), who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must also guard an abandoned egg that's been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird (played by Danielle Kucera).

Although Horton faces ridicule, danger and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz (played by Samantha Dobson) never loses faith in him. In the end, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge.

Chester Springs Life was on hand backstage moments before the show's final dress rehearsal on Feb. 16, to capture the nerves and excitement of cast and crew.

-- Story and photos by Richard Gaw