Fairytale creatures have taken over Plant City, bringing a modern twist to a story many know by heart.
“Shrek the Musical” officially debuted last weekend at Plant City Entertainment, offering viewers an in-depth and comical look at exactly how an ogre became the true love of a cursed princess.
The whimsical story highlighted in the film is expanded in the play with character backgrounds and insightful songs at the forefront of the narrative. With over 80 costumes, elaborate makeup and intricate props, “Shrek” brings a fast-paced and professional production to Plant City.
“It’s an all-immersive experience where we break the fourth wall and make you feel like you’re in the
actual surroundings,” Oliver Sprague, the director of “Shrek the Musical,” said. “I’ve been directing since 2002 and this is definitely the biggest undertaking I’ve ever done as a director.”
Characters do not limit themselves to the stage in this production with multiple scenes taking place in the actual audience. Due to the all-encompassing nature of the show, the entire theater is decorated to look like Shrek’s swamp. Trees, lights and ogre themed signs enclose the space transporting attendees into the Kingdom of Far Far Away.
The extensive cast is made up of some of Plant City’s finest, with Shrek being played by Nick Knetzke, Andrea Lord as Princess Fiona and Doug Buffaloe as the hilarious Donkey.
“This cast is absolutely incredible,” Sprague said. “I could not have asked for a better outcome, honestly. They’re amazing and they’ve been super fun to work with and they’re high energy on stage. They bring this fairytale to life.”
Sprague and his assistant director, Josie Costa, decided they wanted to tackle a major production and began preplanning for “Shrek” in January. Not wanting to leave anything to chance, Sprague had rehearsals begin in April with months of practice and choreography to perfect the production.
Tickets are $18 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and members and groups of 10 or more pay $12. Because of the high demand it is recommended that tickets be purchased in advance, either online, at Hardee’s Fashion in Plant City or by calling (813) 752-0728 before the show.
The theater only seats 150 so space is limited. If you plan to buy tickets on the night of the show, Sprague said you should arrive by 7 p.m. to grab the remaining seats.