This spring, the Highlands Performing Arts Center brings ogres, princesses, dragons, and one relentlessly loyal Donkey to its Mainstage with Shrek the Musical – a full-scale PAC Educational Theatre production that celebrates humor, heart, and the courage to be yourself with actors of all ages from right here on the Plateau.
Based on the DreamWorks film and William Steig’s book, Shrek turns the traditional fairytale inside out. The hero is a swamp-dwelling ogre. The princess has a secret. The villain is vertically challenged but full of ego. A chorus of displaced fairytale characters searches for belonging. Beneath the laughs and lively score is a story about acceptance.
PAC’s Educational Theatre program has become one of the PAC’s most dynamic initiatives, welcoming local performers of all ages and experience levels. For many participants, this is a first step onto the stage. For others, it’s a joyful return. Weekly rehearsals build more than a show; they build confidence, teamwork, and lasting friendships. This year more than 50 actors are participating, from age 5 to 55.
The production extends beyond the spotlight. Students and volunteers work on sets, costumes, backstage coordination, and technical elements, gaining hands-on experience in every facet of live theatre. The result is a true community effort with neighbors creating something meaningful together. When the curtain rises, audiences can expect vibrant costumes, inventive staging, and the unmistakable energy that comes from a cast invested not just in their roles, but in one another.
Co-Artistic Director Lee Trevathan is busy working with this year’s cast, especially on voice and movement.
When reflecting on this year’s production she said, “As PAC Educational Theatre enters its third season, we’re proud to provide a creative home where performers of all ages and experience levels can learn, collaborate, and grow. Shrek: The Musical is the perfect production for this moment in our journey. At its heart, it celebrates individuality, acceptance, and the power of community – values that define PAC Educational Theatre and the experience we hope to share with every audience member.”
This production is generously sponsored by Cullasaja Women’s Outreach, Mountain Findings, Highlands Community Fund, Church of the Good Shepherd, and Mountain Top Rotary Club.
Performances:
Friday, April 24
Opening Night, 7:00 P.M.
Saturday, April 25
Evening Performance, 7:00 P.M.
Sunday, April 26
Matinee Performance, 3:00 P.M.
Join the PAC for a weekend of laughter, music, and a reminder that even in a swamp, fairytales can flourish.
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