A Note from the Director

March 30th, 2019 was the last time the students of Kiski Area High School performed in a live musical on the auditorium stage. Over three years have passed since their singing voices rang out over the 800+ seat auditorium you’re sitting in right now. Three years since dancers who’ve honed their art since early childhood were able to tell a story through movement. Three years since our student musicians played their hearts out, and our talented crew got to display the months of hard work poured into their craft. After so many lost moments in this theater, we knew this year’s show had to be something spectacular. Something with a challenging and original score. Something funny, yet heartfelt, to bring laughter and joy back into this hallowed space. Something with special effects and surprises around every corner. Even during last year’s “Cavaret” production, Mrs. McMeans and I already knew what we were choosing for our 2022 return to the stage, and we couldn’t be happier with the decision to produce Shrek: The Musical for you this evening!

The beloved Dreamworks Animation movie first hit movie theaters all the way back in 2001, and has spawned sequels, spinoffs, television shows, amusement park rides, and this musical. The characters of Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey have become lasting symbols of love and friendship that are more than skin deep, and the fractured fairytale characters teach us not to be afraid to be ourselves, despite how the world may treat us. We hope tonight’s performance brings you a bit of laughter, and maybe a joyful tear or two, in a world that often lacks kindness and love these days. Remember that “beautiful ain’t always pretty,” and to always “let your Freak Flag fly!” Enjoy the show!

Robert Capanna