BWW Previews: SHREK THE MUSICAL at Palm Canyon Theatre

In a normal year, Palm Canyon Theatre (PCT) kicks their season off in September with a big, splashy musical - but 2021 has been anything but a normal year. They started off with The Boys, a 2-person play which paid homage to the 9/11 Heroes. Next up was a reprise the of cult hit Sordid Lives with a cast of around a dozen. Both shows were extremely well produced, but I suspect that the smaller casts were selected because no one knew for sure if audiences would be allowed indoors, or if so, they would have to allow for empty seats between parties, etc.

Well, it's pretty well settled now that as long as theatre goers present proof of vaccination at the door and are wearing masks, they can fill the theatre just like they are accustomed to, and so it's time for a big, splashy musical. Shrek The Musical is the perfect splashy choice! Based on the 2001 DreamWorks Oscar-award winning animated musical, the 2008 Broadway musical received 12 Drama Desk Awards, eight Tony Award nominations, and has stayed in constant production around the world.

Most of us have seen one or more of the three Shrek films, but the familiar characters, catchy songs and spectacular costumes take on a new life onstage at PCT, and the results are fun for audiences of all ages. The story begins with the ogre living happily and alone in his swamp until Lord Farquaad evicts the fairy kingdom to his land. With the help of Donkey, Shrek rescues Princess Fiona in an attempt to regain control of his land, but he gets more than he bargained for in the princess. This adventure-filled journey features music by Jeanine Tesori and book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire.

PCT's production of Shrek the Musical will have a strong cast. Shrek -- Eric Stein-Steele; Fiona - Caroline McKinzie; Donkey - Lou Galvan; Lord Farquaad - Keith Alexander; and Young Fiona - Gracie Van Dijk. Featured ensemble members (fairy tale characters) include Paul Grant, Jana Giboney, Isabella Morrison, Laurie Holmes, and Victoria Herrera. The production will be directed and choreographed by PCT Artistic Director, Se Layne. Musical Director is Jaci Davis, Set and Lighting Design by J. W. Layne, and Costumes by Derik Shopinski.

Director Se Layne stated that she hopes (especially during Palm Springs Pride) to spread the message of self-acceptance and celebrating individuality. The musical's anthem "Let Your Freak Flag Fly" is a message of love and acceptance, not just of other people, but of yourself.

How To Get Tickets

Shrek the Musical runs from October 22 to November 7. Showtimes are 7 p.m. on Thursdays, 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $36 general admission, $32 for seniors, and $15 for students. For tickets or other information, call the PCT Box Office at 760-323-5123 or order online at PalmCanyonTheatre.org. Palm Canyon Theatre is located at 538 North Palm Canyon Drive, at the corner of Alejo Road. Box Office hours are Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Photo by Paul Hayashi