The stage at the Highlands Performing Arts Center was alive with laughter, music, and a touch of fairytale magic as PAC Educational Theatre presented its recent production of Shrek the Musical.
Over the course of six performances, more than 1,000 audience members filled the theater, an inspiring show of support for the young performers and the growing impact of the program in our community.
Featuring a cast of local youth and adults, the production brought the beloved story to life with energy, humor, and heart. From colorful costumes to confident performances, it was clear that months of dedication and guidance from PAC’s team of professional directors, Lee Trevathan and Erik Bishop, had paid off.
For many of the students, the experience extended far beyond the stage, building confidence, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.
Families were equally engaged in the process, with parents and siblings volunteering behind the scenes, helping with costumes, sets, and production support. The result was not just a show, but a shared community experience.
Everett Wright, who starred as Shrek alongside his son Atticus who played one of the three little pigs, joined Educational Theatre for the first time this year.
“Being part of the PAC Educational Theatre production of Shrek the Musical alongside my son was an experience I’ll never forget,” he says. “Watching him – and all the young performers – grow in confidence and talent filled me with pride. None of it would have been possible without the incredible dedication and heart that Erik Bishop and Lee Trevathan poured into this show. It was truly something special.”
As parent Hilary Wilkes shared, “Our family is so grateful for the talented mentors and professionals that the PAC provides for our children via the educational theatre program. We’ve loved watching them thrive on stage, and it is so special to engage in an activity that brings us all together – with everyone in the family performing or volunteering for these wonderful productions.”
With record attendance and an outpouring of enthusiasm from both participants and audiences, Shrek the Musical stands as a shining example of how PAC Educational Theatre continues to enrich the cultural and creative life of Highlands.
Up next in 2027, Annie!
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