Local Actors Talk “Shrek the Musical” coming to Pingree Theatre

HAMILTON, MA – Together, a group of dedicated, energetic, super-talented community theatre folks -- from Beverly, Bradford, Ipswich, Hamilton and beyond -- are brewing up their own special brand of musical magic, and they’re excited to be unleashing it for all to see, December 14 and 15 and 16.

On Friday and Saturday, December 14 and 15, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, December 16 at 2 p.m., the Entr’acte Theatre Company ensemble will offer their big reveal with “Shrek the Musical,” at the Weld Theatre at Pingree School, 537 Highland Street, Hamilton, for three rousing performances only.

“This is such a fun show, I can't wait for people to see it,” enthuses Aaron Swiniuch, who plays the lead role of Shrek, the cantankerous ogre-hero in the musical that follows him and his loyal companion Donkey on a quest to rescue the Princess Fiona from her lonely, dragon-guarded tower and deliver her to Farquaad (played by Edward Perez, from Lawrence), who wants her for his bride.”

In true fairy tale style, “Shrek the Musical” features a curse, which can only be broken by a true love’s kiss, and the inevitable lessons about embracing one’s own true nature and how it’s what’s inside a person that really counts.

“Throughout the show, you get the chance to see Shrek in multiple ways through him finding love, accepting that he isn't alone, and facing his fears,” says Swiniuch, from Beverly, who has been involved with the show three times before, in different roles, not all acting.

“I love playing this character. In a world where so many people are pushed aside for being different or ‘build walls’ because they feel they don't belong, both Shrek the character, and the show, shine a positive light on the chance for change. You do not have to feel alone or be alone. There are others out there who will love you for who you are, you just need to find the courage inside yourself to accept that you are beautiful in every single way.”

Stephanie Angelini, also from Beverly, plays Shrek’s sardonic sidekick, the Donkey. “I am so grateful to work on such an uplifting show with such a strong message and such wonderful people and for the creative freedom to interpret the role,” she says.

And Casey Hatch, from Bradford -- who plays the princess Fiona – loves the fact that her character “is not your typical princess, and it is such a joy to get to play her with her personality.”

Hatch continues, “She spends a lot of time trying to fit the mold of what she thinks she should be and trying to be someone that she really is not. She struggles with her conflicting heart and mind, and eventually realizes that she has to make her own story and be the person she truly is inside. It’s a lesson that is so important for every person to be reminded of, regardless of age.

“This is our story,” she says, “and I hope you enjoy it!”

Hard-to-resist “Shrek the Musical” -- live and on stage -- will provide first-rate fun for the whole family! Tickets are available at Brown Paper Tickets https://bit.ly/2S0M34f