BWW Q&A: Lacey Connell Talks SHREK The Musical at Theatre in the Park
The family favorite runs May 22–30 at Theatre in the Park's outdoor stage
Theatre in the Park continues its 2026 outdoor season with SHREK THE MUSICAL, running May 22 through May 30. Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film and the beloved storybook, the show follows a swamp-dwelling ogre, a wisecracking donkey, and a feisty princess on an unlikely adventure that proves what makes us different can also make us strong.
BroadwayWorld spoke with director Lacey Connell about bringing the production to life. Connell is a Kansas City–based performer, director, and arts administrator who serves as the Performing Arts Coordinator for the Johnson County Park and Recreation District, where she curates and leads performing arts classes and camps in music, theatre, and dance. She also helps lead TIP Academy both administratively and on creative teams, working to create meaningful theatrical experiences for hundreds of young performers each year. Connell directs and performs throughout the Kansas City metro area, returns annually as Musical Director at Indian Woods Middle School, and serves on boards and committees including the KC Metro Educators Alliance and the MTC/JCC Education Advisory Committee. She was recently honored with a Governor's Arts Award in recognition of her impact on arts education and community engagement.
SHREK THE MUSICAL runs May 22–30 at Theatre in the Park. Performances begin at 8:00pm, with the box office opening at 6:00pm and gates opening at 6:30pm. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10.80 for seniors, and $7 for youth ages 4–10; children 3 and under are free (prices before taxes and fees). The production is rated PG. Tickets are available at the Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center Box Office or online at www.theatreinthepark.org. The 2026 Theatre in the Park season is generously sponsored by AdventHealth and One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning.
TIP is the place Where Dreams are Born. How does directing this production help your dreams come true?
As a director, I've always wanted to create spaces where theatre magic can happen in a fun, positive, collaborative way. Getting to bring Shrek to life with this cast has been really special, and it's exactly the kind of joyful storytelling experience I've always dreamed of creating.
What do you want audience members to know prior to seeing SHREK?
Get ready to LAUGH and be blown away by this cast's talent. They've worked incredibly hard, and it's been such a joy getting to direct them. I can't wait for audiences to see all the humor and heart they bring to the stage.
What themes exist within this story that you connect with?
One of my favorite lyrics in the show is, "What makes us special makes us strong." I honestly don't know if there's a better message for the world right now. Shrek does such a beautiful job reminding us that the things that make us different are often our greatest strengths.
What else should we know about SHREK?
It's all your favorite parts of the movie and musical theatre smashed together in the best way. You'll love the nods to the original film, but the show also brings so many fun surprises!
If you were an Ogre, what would be your favorite part?
Being GREEN, obviously! Green is my favorite color, so honestly, what could be better than getting to wear your favorite color all day every day?
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