'Shrek' from Book to Screen to Stage Discussion March 3

On Monday, March 3 at 7PM, The Jewish Museum will present "Shrek: From Book to Film to Broadway." This panel discussion will trace the odyssey of William Steig's Shrek character from the storybook page to his adaptation for film and the Broadway stage.  Panelists will explore how Shrek's unique appeal with both adults and children inspires the creative process.

The highly regarded writer, historian and critic Leonard Marcus will examine William Steig's career as a children's book illustrator and author. Jeffrey Katzenberg, Chief Executive Officer of DreamWorks Animation, will discuss bringing the character of Shrek to life on film. Chris Miller, director of the Shrek the Third film, will offer a movie director's take on the character of Shrek. Jason Moore, director of the forthcoming Shrek The Musical, and Pulitzer Prize winner David Lindsay-Abaire, book and lyrics for Shrek The Musical, will speak about the creative process that is driving the musical stage production.

The program is being offered in conjunction with The Jewish Museum's exhibition, From The New Yorker to "Shrek: The Art of William Steig," on view through March 16, 2008.  This first major exhibition of the work of the prolific New Yorker cartoonist and children's book illustrator and author marks the centennial of Steig's birth. It offers a rare opportunity to view over 190 original drawings, many of which have never before been on display.  Steig's picture book Shrek! — which means "fear" in Yiddish — inspired the Academy Award-winning film Shrek (2001) and its two sequels — Shrek 2 (2004) and Shrek the Third (2007) — as well as an upcoming Broadway musical.

Produced by DreamWorks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions, Shrek The Musical will open at the Broadway Theatre on Sunday, December 14, 2008. Preview performances begin on November 8, 2008. Shrek The Musical features a book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire, music by Jeanine Tesori, and is directed by Jason Moore.

Tickets are $15 for the general public; $12 for students and seniors; and $10 for Jewish Museum members.  For further information regarding programs at The Jewish Museum, the public may call 212.423.3337 or visit www.thejewishmuseum.org.

 Museum hours are Saturday through Wednesday, 11am to 5:45pm; and Thursday, 11am to 8pm.  Museum admission is $12.00 for adults, $10.00 for senior citizens, $7.50 for students, free for children under 12 and Jewish Museum members.  Admission is free on Saturdays.  For general information on The Jewish Museum, the public may visit the Museum's Web site at http://www.thejewishmuseum.org or call 212.423.3200.  The Jewish Museum is located at 1109 Fifth Avenue at 92nd Street, Manhattan.