This year’s musical at OHS, “Shrek” is gaining a lot of popularity. With its funky and incredible characters brought to

life from the film, it seems larger than life. During the musical, viewers will follow Shrek, Donkey and Princess Fiona on their journey to find out what true love looks like, as well as encountering characters such as Pinocchio, Gingy, and many other fairytale characters. 

The story is based around a green ogre named Shrek, who lives in a swamp. Shrek goes out to find a man named Lord Farquaad who dumped fairytale creatures in Shreks’ swamp. Along his journey to confront Farquaad, he meets Donkey who is soon to be his sidekick. After confronting Farquaad, he ends up sending them on a quest to rescue Princess Fiona. After they find Fiona, the trio goes on an adventure that shows the lengths of true love. 

Mr. Erik Eitrheim, director of the musical, is thoroughly excited for this show. 

Eithrheim said, “The show is essentially the same as the movie.” Beside the show having singing and dancing, it has a very strong message. Similar to what Shrek finds out in the musical, people need to remember to not be someone they are not. 

Mr. Eitrheim said, ”I can’t pick between many fun dance numbers and characters.”

 Mr. Eitrheim believes each of these numbers will stand out to make this show very memorable.

The audience is taken through a storybook-like beginning, and then introduced to the one and only, Shrek. Shrek is played by senior Alec Harris.

Harris said, “Shrek is a pretty touching story.” Not only does Shrek understand it’s okay to be different, but to be proud of being different. 

Musical rehearsals have been taking place after school since the end of December. Throughout the rehearsals, the cast has been able to learn music, choreography and their lines. At this time, they have learned a lot and are eager to perform in front of a live audience.  

Sophomore Clara Lindenau, who plays the white rabbit, said, “Musicals I have been in before were only one week camps and then you perform at the end of the week.”

By having more practice time, she has seen a lot of growth in the cast as well as her friendships within the cast. 

If people would like to see a show that encourages self-love and great friendships, “Shrek” is a great show for that. Opening night is Friday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. in the Owatonna High School Auditorium. Other dates include: Feb. 25 at 7 p.m., Feb. 26 at 1:30 p.m. and Mar. 3-4 at 7 p.m. 

Get Tickets here