SHREK Comes to Theatre Lawrence, 12/6-22

Theatre Lawrence brings Shrek: The Musical, to the stage with performances Dec. 6 through Dec. 22. Inspired by the Oscar winning DreamWorks movie, the stage version has book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori, for a show that brings everyone's favorite Ogre to new and hilarious life on the stage.

The story is set in a faraway kingdom turned upside down! Things get ugly when an unseemly ogre (Knute Pittenger)- not a handsome prince - is sent to rescue a feisty princess, played by Maggie Gremminger.

Shrek's mission is determined by a bad guy with a SHORT temper, Lord Farquaad, played by newcomer John Robison. Shrek is accompanied on his trek by an unwelcome donkey who won't shut up, played by Jake Leet. Arriving at the tower where Fiona is locked up, the two unlikely heroes encounter a huge dragon, whose explosive voice is sung by newcomer Kiki Thompson. The show is part romance, part twisted fairy tale and all irreverent fun for all ages!

Young and Teen Fiona are played by Josephine Pellow and newcomer Abby Sharp. Other members of the large cast include veterans Dennis Tyner, Erin Fox, Jerzy Gipp, Christoph Cording, Skye Reid, Mario Bonilla, Genée Figuieras, Hailey Gillespie, Muncel Jones, Emma Cook, Sonja Holmgren, Heather Ballinger and newcomers Guy Gardener, Blane Brungardt, Matt Rood, TJ Chaffin, Abel Brakenhoff and Renee Blinn.

The production is directed by Doug Weaver, with choreography by Susan Rieger. Mary Baker is the Music Director and pianist, with musicians John Childers, Valance Penn, Bill Funk, Janed Griffin and Becca Paisar. The massive set and lights are designed by Technical Director, Phil Schroeder. The costume team is led by Jane Pannington, Jill Stueve, Elle Patton and Linda Ballinger. Makeup is designed my Tammy Keiser. Jeff Blair serves as the assistant director.

Performances run December 6 through December 22. Evening performances begin at 7:30pm: December 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 20 and 21. Matinees begin at 2:30pm: December 7, 8, 15, and 22. Opening night audiences are invited to a 6:30pm. pre-show reception catered by Maceli's.

For tickets and gift certificates, call 785-843-SHOW (7469). Box Office hours 11:30-4:30 M-F or visit www.theatrelawrence.com.

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