Maybe the Grinch has a point about the Whos.

In Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” the townsfolk at the base of Mount Crumpit could seem a tad too ebullient and effervescent if you’re not in the mood for it. And the noise the creepy creature complains about up in his mountain lair? It makes perfect sense that the racket would unnerve someone particularly sensitive to such things.

In Mel Marvin and Timothy Mason’s musical take on the tale, most of the Who songs are forgettable and repetitious, further stacking the deck against them for the audience’s attention. For up on that mountain lies a colorful, comical villain whose efforts to wreck their Christmas provide the most memorable moments in Children’s Theatre Company’s 2024 edition of a show that, post-COVID, looks on its way to becoming an annual Twin Cities tradition on par with the Guthrie’s long-running “Christmas Carol.”

During Act 1 of Saturday’s opening-night performance, I found myself wondering whether CTC was in a rut with this piece. While Dean Holt was delightfully engaging as the aging narrator who frames the story as a reminiscence, something was missing in the way of energy and excitement. But perhaps Holt (who doubles as director for the first time) said something at intermission about kicking up the voltage, for the second act was not only full of fast-paced fun, but it contained the most moving journey of transformation I’ve encountered in this oft-told story.

Related Articles

Play “Reunion (After the End of the World)” presents a timely, apocalyptic story

Review: ‘All the Devils Are Here’ an insightful examination of evil

Review: Caroline Shaw and Sō Percussion create eclectic, alluring music mix at Walker Art Center

One artist offers his impressions of another in Penumbra’s gripping ‘Basquiat’

Review: The updated Broadway take on ‘Some Like It Hot’ sizzles

While executing that successful change of tone is a credit to the whole cast, crew and orchestra, the bulk of the task falls to Reed Sigmund, who reprises his signature role as the green-furred, red-eyed villain who sets out to steal all of the decorations, gifts and food down in Whoville, underlining his badness by abusing his dog into being his reluctant accomplice.

Hence, it feels kind of odd that the show’s first big laughs arrive when Sigmund is cleaning out the Who homes in the dead of night. But Sigmund commands that scene with a childlike hyperactivity, delighting in his nihilism and combing the crowd, badgering audience members like a vintage insult comedian. It amounts to a most enjoyable breaking of the fourth wall — until you realize that he’ll also be breaking hearts.

And that’s when this “Grinch” becomes a genuinely tender and affecting piece of theater. This tale of transformation could have an impact on those who might, say, be a bit Grinchy about the recent election results and not feel in the mood for decking the halls and ho-ho-hoing. It becomes a story of finding comfort in community and cultivating gratitude.

Entrusted with turning the tone is little Cindy-Lou Who, with Batya Rose Green Hofkin and Chloe Hu alternating in the role, while young Max the dog (Adelyn Frost and Harriet Spencer) makes a case for listening to the heart before the Grinch recognizes he has one. Among the Who adults, C. Ryan Shipley brings layers to a compassionate papa.

And the set and costumes are as colorful as ever. While it would be nice if more of Seuss’ rhythm and rhyme found their way into Mason’s script, it’s nevertheless a touching show that might be arriving right on time.

‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’

When: Through Jan. 5
Where: Children’s Theatre Company, 2400 Third Ave. S., Mpls.
Tickets: $83-$15, available at 612-874-0400 or childrenstheatre.org
Capsule: It’s a good time for a story about growing a bigger heart.