Whoville Comes to Bethesda as Imagination Stage Presents Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
The mean one in green is headed to Bethesda this holiday season. Imagination Stage presents Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical from November 21, 2026 through January 3, 2027. It is a festive stage version of the Christmas tale that families have shared for generations, and it promises a holiday outing that works for every member of the household. The production runs about 85 minutes and is billed as great for the whole family. That makes it an easy fit for a December afternoon, even with the youngest Whos in tow.
The story needs little introduction. High atop Mount Crumpit lives a grouchy, green-furred loner whose heart is two sizes too small. He has spent years listening to the cheerful Whos of Whoville below as they sing, feast, and celebrate. Fed up with the noise and the merriment, he hatches a scheme to dress as Santa Claus, slip into town on Christmas Eve, and make off with every present, stocking, and roast beast in sight. What he discovers on Christmas morning changes everything, as a small voice and a town full of joyful Whos teach him that Christmas was never about the packages, boxes, or bags.
The musical is based on Dr. Seuss' 1957 picture book and the beloved animated television special that followed it. It features a book and lyrics by Timothy Mason and music by Mel Marvin, with additional music and lyrics by Albert Hague and Dr. Seuss. Those additional numbers include two holiday staples audiences will recognize instantly: "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" and "Welcome Christmas" from the original animated special. In the stage version, Max the Dog narrates the tale, so audiences see the Grinch's misadventures through the eyes of his long-suffering canine companion. The musical first took shape at the Children's Theatre Company in Minneapolis before going on to holiday engagements on Broadway and national tours, and it has since become a seasonal tradition for theatres across the country.
Imagination Stage's production is directed and choreographed by Ashleigh King, a Helen Hayes Award winner. This version brings Whoville to life with whimsical sets, toe-tapping songs, and the timeless story of a Grinch who discovers the true meaning of Christmas. King's creative team includes Music Director Walter 'Bobby' McCoy, Scenic Designer Andrew Cohen, Costume Designer Paris Francesca, Lighting Designer Hailey LaRoe, Sound Designer Sam Crawford, and Resident Props and Puppet Designer Dre Moore. Samantha Leahan serves as Resident Stage Manager.
The professional cast includes Russell Rinker, Chris Genebach, Jimmy Bartlebaugh, Trenton McKenzie Beavers, Calvin Malone, Sarah Middough, Angelo Harrington II, Tobi Baisburd, and Ciara Wilkerson. They are joined by a youth company of Ariana Pizzino, June Tuss, Richard Bradford, Penelope Porter, Adrianna Weir, and Benjamin Nesher. Pairing seasoned professionals with young performers is a hallmark of Imagination Stage, and it suits a story in which the littlest Who plays such a big part.
Whether you grew up with the book, the cartoon, or both, this is a chance to share the story with a new generation in a live setting, just a short Metro ride from downtown DC. Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical plays at Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Avenue in Bethesda, from November 21, 2026 through January 3, 2027