Consider it a standing invitation to join them in the swamp.
Langley Secondary School’s musical theatre students are jumping in with both feet as they present Shrek, The Musical, and bring the story of everyone’s favourite ogre to life on stage.
In a faraway kingdom an unlikely hero finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess, who turns out to be a far cry from the damsel in distress they’d expected.
Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude, and many more fairy tale creatures, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there’s one at hand — and his name is Shrek.
Shrek, The Musical features 19 new songs, plus many of the scenes from the movie re-imagined into a longer and more complete story. Part romance, part twisted fairy tale, it is all ogre-sized fun and equally appropriate for children and adults.
LSS has been producing annual musicals since 2008, building on a tradition that began 21 years ago at H.D. Stafford Secondary.
The production marks music director Patti Thorpe’s 21st annual show, and once again she has the assistance of current and former students and community members.
And that’s not even counting members of the 24-piece orchestra, who will support the students on stage.
Artistic director and drama teacher Brian Leonard is also handling lighting, costumes and stage design for the show, with the cast and parent community and LSS art, drama and LSS new Trades 1 class bringing his vision to life.
The team is rounded out by choreographer Emma Garland, a recent graduate of LSS. The cast includes students from Grades 7 to 12, continuing a long tradition of involving younger students in the show.
The production runs Feb. 27, 28, March 5, 6 and 7 at 7 p.m., with 2 p.m. Saturday matinees on Feb. 28 and March 7.
Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for students and seniors. All performances are at Langley Secondary School 21405-56 Ave. Reserve your ticket by calling 604-534-4171, ext 743. Reserved ticket can be paid for at the door, or online at www.LSScommunity.payschoolfees.net (For LSS families, the address is www.LSS.PaySchoolFees.net.
