Brewster: SHREK the Musical March 19 - 22!

A Big Bright Beautiful World is Recreated for the Stage March 19 - 22

Once Upon a Time there was a high school with a large group of talented and comical teens. What musical would be perfect for this “animated” group? The Oscar-winning film turned into a Broadway smash, “Shrek the Musical!” This live action musical extravaganza will hit the Brewster High School stage this spring.

Students from Brewster High School, under the direction of Stephanie Rubino, have accepted the challenge of bringing this story about an orgre, a princess, a donkey and a whole freaky collection of fairy tale creatures to life! “It definitely is a challenge playing such a well known character,” stated Janet Bergquist who plays Donkey, “it’s finding a balance between the Donkey that the audience is familiar with, but still adding stylistic touches to the character.”

Add a fire-breathing dragon, tons of props, a huge set, a character who has to “walk” on his knees and another one with a nose that grows when he lies – these are just a few of the puzzles students need to solve. Sydney Gershon plays the feisty Fiona. “The more the cast, crew and pit work together, “ explains Sydney, “ the more our specific characters come alive.” Over 100 students are working on and off the stage to make the magic happen. Senior Andrew Gordon is playing the title role of our favorite ogre, Shrek. “If you had told me in my freshman year that I would be the lead in a BHS musical,” Andrews admits, “I never would have believed you!”

And if all of this wasn’t challenging enough, for the first time Putnam County schools can participate in the Helen Hayes Youth Theatre’s Metropolitan High School Theater Awards. Judges evaluate participating shows and all of the participating schools are celebrated in a June awards ceremony modeled after Broadway’s Tony Awards. “We are so proud of our students. “ says Ms. Rubino, “Brewster High School’s Theatre Department has wanted to participate in these awards for years. We are thrilled to be included this year.”

“Shrek the Musical” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). Book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire. Music by Jeanine Tesori.

Shrek is a big, bright beautiful show that will thrill and delight audiences of all ages! The five performances will be held at the Brewster High School Performing Arts Center 50 Foggintown Rd, Brewster, NY. Show times are March 19, 20, 21 at 7:30 PM with special matinees on March 21 and 22 at 2:00 PM. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students/seniors and are available for purchase at the door or online. Visit www.BrewsterSchools.org for more information.