Aurora Student to Perform as 'Horton' in Seussical the Musical

What do actor Keith Mankowski and Horton the Elephant have in common? A lot, according to the almost 18 year old College of DuPage student, who is playing him in Aurora Spotlight Youth Theater’s upcoming production of Seussical, Jr. Mankowski says Horton has been his dream role since he first performed in the show as an 8 year old. “I can relate to him in a lot of different ways”, he says of the tender hearted, loyal character.

In this lively, colorful musical, many Dr. Seuss favorites come to life. Narrated by the Cat in the Hat, audiences meet Horton as he finds a dust speck inhabited by the Whos and their smallest citizen, JoJo, whom he befriends. While simultaneously egg sitting high in a tree, Horton tries to faithfully protect the lives he has been entrusted with from those who wish them all harm.

Mankowski is no stranger to the stage. However, after performing in 18 shows, and being a part of the competitive Improv Team 4 years in a row, Seussical will be his last with Aurora’s Spotlight Youth Theater. In the next few months, he will be leaving on a national tour with Theater 47 Performing Arts Group in their professional production of The Wiz, as part of the ensemble, and is doing a local production with them currently, as well. When asked if he thinks his years at Spotlight Youth Theater have helped him land his professional roles, Mankowski replies, “Yes, I can say without a doubt, if it wasn’t for Spotlight, I would never have been able to get these amazing opportunities!”

Aurora’s Spotlight Youth Theater offers numerous classes, and puts on three fully produced professional quality shows a year. The group, whose purpose statement is “Reflecting Christ thru the performing arts”, stresses community as well as excellence. Mankowski says, “I love how everyone is so accepting and loving.” He says he’d also like to thank his voice teacher, Kristi Wright, a frequent director with the organization, whom he says has “helped me in so many ways!”

Come visit the enchanted world of Suessical Jr., at the Batavia Performing Arts Center, at Batavia High School, Thursday, October 8th, thru Sunday October 11th. Tickets may be purchased online at www.spotlight.org, or at the door.