By Zandra Wolfgram
The holiday season is upon us, and Sinfonia Gulf Coast is bringing Dr. Seuss’ beloved tale to life with The Grinch in Concert. On Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, at 7:30 p.m., the Destin–Fort Walton Beach Convention Center will transform into Whoville as Sinfonia’s live orchestra performs James Horner’s iconic score while the full movie plays on the big screen.
To get you in the holiday spirit, here are 10 fun facts about The Grinch story and Ron Howard’s beloved movie adaptation, How the Grinch Stole Christmas:
1. The Grinch’s Original Color
Dr. Seuss originally envisioned the Grinch in black and white. The character became his signature green after an inspiration drawn from a rental car Seuss thought was “ugly.”
2. A Record-Breaking Costume
Jim Carrey’s Grinch costume took **two hours to apply each day**, using 1,000 yak hairs dyed green. Carrey underwent torture-resistance training with a CIA expert to cope with the lengthy process.
3. Cindy Lou Who Was Almost Played by a Pop Star
Before Taylor Momsen landed the role of Cindy Lou Who, rumors circulated that Britney Spears might be cast in the role.
4. The Dog Who Stole Hearts
Max the dog, played by a rescue dog named Kelley, charmed audiences with her performance. Kelley’s ability to act with such expressive eyes made Max a fan favorite.
5. Ron Howard’s Cameo
Director Ron Howard stepped in for a small cameo as a Who. Spot him during the Whoville scenes if you’re quick!
6. The Grinch’s Iconic Song
You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch, originally sung by Thurl Ravenscroft in the 1966 cartoon, received a jazzy update by Jim Carrey in the 2000 movie. The song remains a holiday classic and if you attended Holiday Pops in 2023 you got to see a show-stopping performance by Broadway’s legendary baritone Brian Stokes Mitchell.
7. Record-Setting Transformation
How the Grinch Stole Christmas became the highest-grossing holiday film of 2000 and held its spot as the top-grossing Christmas movie for years, cementing its legacy as a must-watch seasonal classic.
8. Dr. Seuss' Approval
Dr. Seuss’ widow, Audrey Geisel, had strict guidelines for adapting her husband’s works. She personally approved Ron Howard for his vision of the Grinch’s world.
9. The Grinch’s Heart Symbolism
The Grinch’s tiny heart grows three sizes by the end of the story, symbolizing the power of generosity and holiday spirit.
10. Live Music, Big Screen Magic
For the first time on the Emerald Coast, Sinfonia Gulf Coast will present this cinematic classic with James Horner’s unforgettable score performed live by a full orchestra.
Don’t Miss the Magic!
“This family-friendly event is one of our favorites because it combines the magic of live orchestral music with a classic holiday story that resonates with all ages,” says Demetrius Fuller, Music & Artistic Director of Sinfonia Gulf Coast.
Tickets are $40–$65, with special pricing for students and military. Tickets are selling fast for this unforgettable live-to-film experience, so grab your tickets now at SinfoniaGulfCoast.org.
With proceeds from the event support Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s music education and community outreach programs across Northwest Florida, every ticket purchase is instrumental to our success.
Celebrate the season with your loved ones and let Sinfonia Gulf Coast make your hearts grow three sizes this holiday season!
