My love for musical theater began in many years ago on this stage, when I joined my first musical. I fell in love with the theater, and have kept it a strong part of my life since. It is truly humbling to be back working again on the same stage where it all began for me, sitting this time on the other side, as a director.
The message of Shrek is timeless, telling the importance of being yourself, accepting everyone for their imperfections, and ultimately, that we are all different and that is something truly wonderful.
The students involved in this production have gained knowledge and confidence in their craft and themselves. They have learned that it is alright to "let your freak flag fly", and that they should appreciate gifts that everyone has to offer.
Thank you for joining us here on our swamp this weekend - we are thrilled to have played a small part of continuing the tradition of theater excellence here at Walnut Creek.
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Xander Greene
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Shrek the Musical, Jr. is a ton of laughs and one clever piece. I particularly love the “homages” to other shows. See if you can find references to songs & scenes from Les Miz, Wicked, Peter Pan, Dream Girls, It’s a Small World a few others.
At the heart of it is a compelling message. The three main characters are troubled, abused, lonely outcasts. The wacky, charming fairy-tale creatures are exiled and berated by a bigoted leader. And this is a musical comedy? Yup! We find inspiration between the laughs from these unlikely heroes. My favorite line (among many) is “What makes us special, makes us Strong!” I’m fairly certain that our performers and crew have heard and taken the message to heart.
I hope their love of Musical Theatre grows with every performance. I hope they make music a part of their lives for as long as they live.
Thank you for the privilege of getting to know these wonderful young people, their generous parents, grandparents, sibs, teachers, administrators and friends who have made Shrek, Jr. possible by sharing their talent and time to prepare this gift for our community.
Allow me to give a huge THANK YOU to Mr. Xander Greene, a former student, who is doing great and important work here at Walnut Creek. I’m so lucky to be part of this adventure with him.
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Mary Rashid
