Director's Notes

Before Shrek, one expected fairytales to follow the formula of a demure princess who is rescued by a prince, riding off into the sunset for their happily ever after.  In subverting the Disney fairytale model, the spoof Shrek reminds us that a true relationship is based on how personalities interact, and “being beautiful ain’t always pretty”. The untrusting protagonist Shrek “builds a wall” against the outside world only to have it broken down by finding not only true love, but also more important true friendship. Shrek’s theme of “what makes us special, makes us strong” can be seen in the story’s refugee crisis, how unconventional Princess Fiona learns to not censor herself by finally accepting and owning her differences, and how Shrek finally admits that he can be an unlikely hero after all. Jeffery Katzenberg, the director of animated movie Shrek, explains, “Each of our characters comes to understand that there’s something wonderful -warts and all- about who they are. I think that’s true for all of us- that the people who ultimately come to know us and love us see the strengths inside us. Whether you’re a princess, a donkey, or even a big, green, stinky ogre, you can find love and happiness.” 

I have to admit when we decided to do this show last spring due to its ability to highlight our many wonderful cast members, I had no idea it was such a large undertaking: over 700 pieces of costumes, wigs, makeup, prosthetics, large set pieces, countless props, lights, magic, full orchestrations, and even 6-part harmonies. I am honored that our Pennbrook Theatre team stepped up: Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Marshall, Ms. Roley, Mr. Jernigan, my husband and children, the Mom and Dad squad who would come Friday nights and Saturdays to put together the beautiful sets you see, and the professionalism and energy of the students who rehearsed countless hours. To the Pennbrook Theatre team, “what did I do to deserve you, my pals evermore, we crossed a bridge together, what a beautiful metaphor.” 

To the students and even audience: your story is still being written. You don’t have to be stuck in a trope, in a character that someone has assigned you. Love yourself for your differences and stand up for other’s differences, recognizing that these differences make it a “big bright beautiful world.” Enjoy Pennbrook’s production of Shrek!

-Mrs. Katie Campbell