An iconic character is making his way from the swamp to the stage.
Shrek the Musical, coming to High River later in November, marks two special milestones for the Windmill Theatre Players.
"Windmill Theatre Players is celebrating our 50th anniversary this year, and Shrek is the 100th major production that we've performed over those years," said co-director Cliff Cameron.
The group started in 1974, and has since brought many iconic productions such as The Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof and Hello Dolly to High River. To mark the two anniversaries, the Windmill Theatre Players are bringing another beloved production to town.
"We've decided we wanted to do something very spectacular, and of course everybody knows Shrek and what kind of a creature he is," he continued. "Windmill is a very, very family oriented group and you can't beat a cartoon character as a family friendly basis for a show."
It's billed as "the story of a hulking green ogre who, after being mocked and feared his entire life by anything that crosses his path, retreats to an ugly green swamp to exist in happy isolation."
According to Cameron, the musical's plot is similar to that of the first Shrek film, with elements of the franchise's other films as well.
"Anybody who comes to see the show, if they've seen the first Shrek movie, they're already a long ways along to knowing the storyline," he said.
While the Shrek films are known for their iconic soundtracks, the play's musical status distinguishes it from the films.
"The musical component of it is, of course, not really based upon the movies other than at the ends of the movies," said Cameron.
"The primary characters all end up singing songs, and you've got your ensemble, like the fairy tale creatures, who have songs throughout that just explain the plot as well," he continued, adding that musicals offer more lively storytelling than straight plays.
The production will bring over 40 cast members to the stage, with the cast ranging from iconic characters such as Shrek, Fiona and Donkey to the villainous Lord Farquaad.
"I think we have a pretty good reputation in the area for putting on a great show, and our expectation is that Shrek is going to be one of our more impressive shows," said Cameron.
Shrek the Musical will be performed at the Highwood Centre, located at 128 5th Ave. SW in High River. Showtimes are as follows:
Dinner theatre - Nov. 21, 22 and 23 (buffet served 5:30 to 7 p.m., curtain at 7:30 p.m.)
Matinees - Nov. 24 and 30 (curtain at 2 p.m.)
Evening shows - Nov. 29 and 30 (curtain at 7:30 p.m.)
Learn more and get tickets on the Windmill Theatre Players website.
