The story of Shrek is a classic that everybody young and old love and enjoy and now a new musical version is coming to Windham High School.
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| Windham High seniors Molly Plati, right, and Stuart Gabaree, play Princess Fiona and Shrek in 'Shrek the Musical' opening Nov. 15 at the WHS Performing Arts Center and running through Nov. 24. SUBMITTED PHOTO |
Rob Juergens is the director of “Shrek the Musical” and is responsible for the blocking and the overall production of the show.
“I have an awesome and highly skilled group of people doing choreography, music direction, costumes, props, set building, makeup, miscellaneous producer things (like organizing), and front of the house details,” he says. “Mostly, I try to craft an overall vision so that all these elements meld together to make a consistent production.”
Each production is different because they each have their own story.
Juergens said this show is very well known due to the success of the original Shrek cartoon.
“You do not want to duplicate Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz and Mike Myers; but you also want to give the audience some of the things they expect,” he said.
Every production presents certain challenges that the producer has to face.
“This production has several obstacles,” says Juergens. “This is the first time we put the pit band on stage, with all the space and sight limitations that ensue. Also, we had to create and stage a huge dragon. There are also some very tricky character transformations.”
But with every production, there are also some favorite parts.
“One thing I love about this production is the ‘singability’ of the musical numbers,” says Juergens. “All too often you see a show, say ‘wasn't that great’, but then you don't find yourself humming any of the songs.”
Molly Plati is a WHS senior and plays Princess Fiona in the “Shrek the Musical” production.
“My favorite part of playing Fiona is her spunk,” says Plati. “Fiona is not an ordinary princess; she is sassy and funny but has a heart of gold. I love getting to bring her to life on stage. One of the biggest challenges I face playing Fiona is playing an Ogre. I won't spoil the surprise, but a funny duet in the second act will really have you on the edge of your seat.”
Plati says that Shrek the Musical has a fantastic blend of humor and heart, much like the original movie.
“The characters are well-developed, and the storyline carries essential messages about acceptance and self-love,” Plati said. “The music is also a highlight, with catchy songs that go hand in hand with the entertaining dances. Our vibrant costumes and creative set make ‘Shrek the Musical’ a performance you want to attend.”
WHS senior Stuart Gabaree plays Shrek and loves the humor of his character in how he interacts with the other characters in the show.
“I love imitating a Scottish accent, but I have to make Mike Myers proud,” says Gabaree. “I also really like the themes that this show presents of being open to new things and stepping out of your comfort zone.”
This is a show that you certainly will not want to miss.
“I highly recommend everyone to come and watch the tale of how an outcast ogre goes on a mission to rescue a princess and ends up falling in love with her,” Juergens said. “First of all, we have a reputation for shows with high quality performance standards, and we will hit those again. Second, it is a hilarious show with many awesome characters. It is wonderfully memorable musically, and it is a guarantee that you will be humming these songs for a long time.”
Tickets for ‘Shrek the Musical” will not be sold in advance. They can be purchased at the door by cash or check; the cost is $17 for adults, $15 for students, children and seniors. Saturday, Nov. 16 is a special RSU 14 night, and all RSU 14 student tickets will be only $10 then. <
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