MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Local audiences will get a chance to see fairy tale creatures, catchy songs and a lot of heart when Shrek Jr. hits the stage next week at Family Community Theatre.
The youth production opens Thursday, July 17, and runs through Sunday, July 20, with five performances. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday through Saturday, and matinees at 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
The musical adaptation is based on the popular animated film and tells the story of an unlikely hero who proves that courage and kindness come in all shapes and sizes.
“One of the big themes of Shrek Jr. is that heroes don’t always look like you expect,” said Craig Williams. “Tolerance is another important message — it’s about embracing differences and finding common ground.”
The cast features 33 local youth actors, ages 7 to 17, from Hutchinson and surrounding communities, including South Hutchinson, Sterling and Nickerson. Thirteen schools are represented in the production.
“This is a great opportunity for our young people to have center stage,” the spokesperson said. “It also brings kids together from different towns and school districts who might never get to meet otherwise.”
Tickets for Shrek Jr. are available at Bookends Bookstore, Absolutely Home and online at familycommunitytheatre.org. Tickets may also be purchased at the door up to an hour before showtime.