Photo by Glen Stubbe Photography
Can a simple song change a heart? A timeless holiday tale’s impact is deepened, growing hearts and holiday spirit three sizes. Discover how a single melody can break barriers, spark joy, and remind us of what really matters. Join me as we uncover the magic that even the Grinch couldn’t resist!
I’m Mindy Peterson, host of Enhance Life with Music podcast, where we explore the ways music makes our lives better. And this is Microhance, a micro-dose of musical enhancement.
One of my favorite things about raising young children was reading storybooks with them. Even after they got a little older and we switched to reading chapter books together, I still brought out certain storybooks to herald certain seasons and mark the occasion every year (along with my seasonal change in music playlists, which I’ve discussed on this podcast before). A few of these storybooks have become part of our family’s Christmas Eve tradition – it’s the one night each year my grown kids will willingly and enthusiastically read time-worn classic stories that are full of memories and bring smiles to all of our faces. One of them is How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss. So you can imagine my delight at seeing and hearing this world brought to life last weekend as a musical by the Children’s Theatre Company.
If you’ve ever read the beloved book or watched the animated special, you know the story: the Grinch, grouchy and green, tries to steal Christmas from the cheerful Whos of Whoville. But what ultimately changes his heart? It isn’t presents or decorations or food — it’s the sound of music. The sound of the Whos singing instead of crying penetrates the Grinch’s heart in a way words never could. It stirs something in him, melting his icy persona and growing his heart three sizes in a single day. This turning point in the story highlights music’s profound ability to communicate and connect.
Even though I have heard and read the story hundreds of times, attending the live musical production caused this timeless tale to impact my emotions and spirit more deeply through the weaving of music into the narrative. Yes, the songs add sparkle; but they also deepen the emotional resonance of the story. When the Whos gather hand in hand to sing, despite losing their gifts and trimmings, the music transforms their joy, love, and celebration into something contagious — something powerful enough to stop the Grinch in his tracks, ponder until his puzzler was sore, and see the truth for himself.
Watching this story unfold on stage, with vibrant choreography magically synced with every sound, reinforced music’s capacity to communicate, convey emotion, and bond. Music brings people together — whether in celebration, resilience, or love.
I’ll put pictures in the show notes of me at the show with my three-year-old friend and her Mom.
If you’re anywhere near the Twin Cities, treat yourself to this interactive and joyous production by the talented Children’s Theatre Company. It runs through January 5, 2025, and is sure to grow your heart and holiday spirit three sizes. And wherever you are, let music warm your heart and remind you of the Whos’ message: the true spirit of Christmas is found not in our “stuff,” but in our people and our choice to practice love and gratitude.
If you’ve experienced music supercharging a holiday tradition, I would love to hear about it.
You can always connect with me on email (mindy@mpetersonmusic.com), Facebook, Instagram, X, or LinkedIn.
I’m Mindy Peterson, and I hope this inspires you to enhance your life with music.
Related episodes you may enjoy:
- Micro 7: How Music Transforms the Pages of Childhood into Timeless Memories
- Ep. 19: What IS it about Christmas Music?! Love it or not, why the response? with psychologist Dr. Krystine BatchoMicro 9: Welcome, Summer – Fully experience the season and soundtrack your memories with your perfect playlist!
- View all Microhance episodes
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