For its 2024 spring production, Lampeter Strasburg High School (LSHS), 1600 Book Road, Lancaster, will present "Shrek the Musical" on Thursday, Feb. 29, and Friday and Saturday, March 1 and 2. Each night will have a 7 p.m. performance, and a 2 p.m. matinee will be held on Saturday.

"Shrek the Musical" is adapted from the 2001 animated film "Shrek," and it incorporates aspects from sequels "Shrek 2" and "Shrek Forever After." The play is set in a mythical world that is an amalgamation of multiple fairy tales, featuring familiar characters such as Cinderella, the Three Pigs and Pinocchio. The story's protagonist, a misanthropic ogre named Shrek, dwells in a peaceful sanctuary deep in the swamp.

Shrek's solitude is interrupted by a group of fantastical characters who have been displaced from their homes by the cruel Lord Farquaad. The unsociable ogre reluctantly agrees to face Lord Farquaad and reclaim their homes in a quest that takes him to faraway lands, where he encounters an unusual cast of magical creatures and a mysterious princess named Fiona.

"Much like the film, 'Shrek the Musical' is a hysterical comedy with great music. People are going to want the soundtrack after seeing the show," said Kevin Ditzler, the play's director. "But it also has a bit of heart to it in the way it has you look at others who you feel are different."

Cast members are working hard to prepare for opening night during rehearsals. LSHS senior Talia Hall and many other students have embraced their roles by studying the characters they will bring to life on stage. "Fiona has a proper princess side, but she's also quirky, and she has her own spunk," Hall said of her character. "This is my first lead role, and it's been great stepping into the part."

Freshman Trenton Brenaman and senior Kole Lawrence, who will play Donkey and Lord Farquaad, respectively, have had to overcome a few key challenges while rehearsing. "This role really pushes me out of my comfort zone a bit," Brenaman said. "I'm learning how Donkey cracks jokes and getting the comedic timing right."

"Lord Farquaad is typically played on his knees, which has been fun but also a big challenge," Lawrence said. "I had to get very durable knee pads."

Senior Aiden Flory, who will play the lead role of Shrek, said cast members have enjoyed making the familiar fairy tale their own. "I think the audience will enjoy seeing Shrek in a different light," Flory added. "It's very close to the movie, but many people will be experiencing the story off of the movie screen for the first time."

To purchase a ticket, visit https://hs.l-spioneers.org/spring-musical.