A Note from the Director. . .
I had the opportunity to see Shrek the Musical shortly after it opened on Broadway. I didn’t know what to expect. However, I knew that Jeanine Tesori, the composer of Thoroughly Modern Millie, had composed the music for Shrek. Knowing how much I enjoyed the music for Millie, I went to Shrek with an open mind. I was delightfully surprised. The show was very entertaining. The music, the sets, the script and the actors were amazing. I was determined that Chaparral would put on this production as soon as we could get the rights. So here we are. The musical is based on the DreamWorks film. It brings the story of everyone’s favorite ogre to new life on the stage.
A show of this magnitude cannot be done by one person. It takes a TEAM. We have the best team in the State of Colorado. We all enjoy working on the school musicals together. It gives us the opportunity to collaborate and create something very special in the CHS theatre. David Peterson and his tech crew have come up with some incredible new ideas for the stage, including rear projection, special effects and an outstanding set. Heather Westenskow has created dazzling choreography and is a pure joy to work with. Steve Hinman, Karen Hearn, Shel Stanfil and the orchestra pit have made the music come to life for the singers. They are a vital component to the process. The cast is full of talent and they bring the characters to life in a charming and fun way. The Patrons of the Performing Arts have performed numerous tasks behind the scenes. We appreciate all that they do for us. We have an extremely supportive administration that allows us to create shows like this. I am so grateful for this TEAM. I am also grateful for a supportive family and for my son Brock who was helpful in working with individual voices for this show.
Thank you for your continuing support of CHS Theatre. Sit back and enjoy a hilarious show filled with great music, choreography, sets and acting. I am proud of this very entertaining production. LET YOUR FREAK FLAGS WAVE!
Jerry Vander Does
