The Grinch is making his UAE debut, bringing his green, grouchy charm to the Zabeel Theatre this December! If you thought Christmas couldn’t get any more magical, think again—Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas The Musical is set to enchant audiences with its mix of laughter, music, and a touch of mischief.
For those unfamiliar with the Grinch, he’s the ultimate Christmas cynic—a grumpy recluse with a heart “two sizes too small” who aims to steal Christmas from the cheerful Whos of Whoville. But as with all good stories, his plans don’t quite go as expected!
The mastermind behind this UAE debut is Olivier Award-winning producer Paul Taylor-Mills, known for creating festive magic on stage. If you caught Elf The Musical in Dubai last year, you’ll know the kind of energy and fun he brings to his productions.
In a conversation with Khaleej Times, Taylor-Mills discusses the challenges of reimagining an iconic story for a live audience, how Dubai’s vibrant cultural landscape influenced this unique production, and why it’s set to be a must-see for families this holiday season.
Q. What inspired you to bring Dr. Seuss' holiday tale to life on stage in the UAE for the first time?
The Grinch is one of the most beloved and iconic Christmas stories, and I couldn't pass up the chance to bring his mischievous spirit to Dubai audiences. After the incredible response to Elf The Musical in 2022, I knew there was a real appetite for high-quality holiday productions here.
Q. Can you share any unique elements or creative adaptations that set this stage production apart from previous versions of the story?
Our version of The Grinch is a brand new adaptation, crafted specifically for Dubai audiences, with a few surprises that make it truly special. We’ve brought in exceptionally talented performers from London’s West End, and the musical numbers are packed with energy and charm.
Q. How do you ensure that the magic and spirit of Dr. Seuss’ original tale are maintained while adapting it for a live theatre audience?
We’re staying true to the heart of Dr. Seuss' original tale by incorporating elements of his distinctive illustrations right into the stage design, keeping that whimsical and instantly recognizable style as the core of the production.
Q. What challenges did you face in bringing such a beloved and iconic story to the stage, and how did you overcome them?
As this is a brand-new adaptation of this Broadway-performing musical, the main challenge was bringing a fresh take to a classic while staying true to the high standard it set.
Q. How does the UAE's cultural landscape influence the way the story is presented, especially considering it's the first time the show is being performed here?
Having previously brought Elf to the UAE, we know just how engaged and enthusiastic Dubai audiences are about live theatre. The appetite here for high-quality, family-friendly productions is incredible, and it’s exciting to be back with something completely different.
Q. What are some of the key visual and theatrical elements that audiences can look forward to experiencing in this production?
Audiences can expect a vibrant, high-energy experience with all-singing, all-dancing performances that truly bring the story to life. The set is packed with big, bold elements that interact seamlessly with a live LED screen, creating a dynamic visual experience.
Q. What do you hope audiences, especially families, take away from this live stage adaptation of Dr. Seuss' holiday classic?
I hope audiences leave with a renewed sense of the true spirit of Christmas—kindness, generosity, and the joy of sharing. The Grinch’s journey is a powerful reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference, and we can’t wait for families to experience that heartwarming message together.
Catch the musical at Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, from December 20-24, with multiple showtimes to suit your schedule. Tickets available on platinumlist.netsomya@khaleejtimes.com
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