Korah Musical Theatre Brings ‘Shrek! The Musical’ to Life

Korah Musical Theatre is set to captivate audiences with its production of Shrek! The Musical, which opens on March 6, 2024, at the Goulais Avenue school. This adaptation of the beloved 2001 animated film, featuring the voices of Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy, draws a cast of 45 students from Grades 7 to 12, many of whom are making their stage debuts.

Director Bobbi Gasparelli believes the enduring popularity of the original film has been instrumental in attracting young talent to the production. “It’s a rebuild year for us,” Gasparelli explained to The Sault Star. “I’m really excited. A lot of kids came out. A lot of great talent. They love the story of Shrek. I think that kind of drew them in as well. They’re all familiar with Shrek. It’s a timeless cartoon.”

Musical Highlights and Themes

“Shrek is about not falling into the stereotypes that people set for you and overcoming what people think you’re capable of and showing them what your true worth is,”

Gasparelli remarked, highlighting the show’s deeper themes. The musical features a range of songs, including “Who I’d Be,” “Beautiful Ain’t Always Pretty,” and “Story of My Life,” which Gasparelli describes as a “strong, good, meaty, expressive group of songs that were really well written.”

Beyond the comedic elements, the production introduces audiences to fairy-tale characters like the Big Bad Wolf and Pinocchio, who navigate their own emotional challenges. Gasparelli noted that these characters reveal “deep dark secrets” that reflect real-life issues such as mental health concerns and body dysmorphia. This portrayal adds a layer of humanity to the story, allowing audiences to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

The journey of Shrek and his companions involves confronting their struggles and learning to work together. For Shrek, this means embarking on a quest of self-discovery and bravery.

Production Details and Ticket Information

The production presents unique challenges for the cast and crew, as Mean Girls, Korah’s previous show, required extensive choreography. In contrast, Shrek! The Musical demands coordination of numerous elements, including costumes, prosthetics, and makeup. The choreography for the show is led by Grade 11 student Isabelle Nardi, with assistance from Riayn Duguay of Studio Dance Arts.

Performances are scheduled from March 6 to March 9, 2024, at Korah Collegiate and Vocational School. Curtain times are set for 19:00, except for Saturday when shows will be held at 13:00 and 19:00. Ticket prices are $29 for adults, $24 for seniors and students, and $19 for children. Tickets can be purchased at the Community Theatre Box Office at Station Mall or online at sautlctc.ca.

An added attraction for attendees includes a pasta dinner prior to the Friday performance, with a combined ticket price for dinner and the show set at $45. A discount of 20 percent is available for seniors and students. Additionally, four matinees will be presented exclusively for elementary school students, further engaging the community with this timeless tale.