Folger McKinsey Elementary School Brings “Shrek The Musical Jr.” To Life Onstage

Folger McKinsey Elementary School students performed “Shrek The Musical Jr.” the weekend of March 21 to an audience of family, friends and fans.

“Shrek The Musical Jr.” is based on the film “Shrek” and tells the story of an ogre who agrees to save a princess so he can evict fairy tale creatures that were just forced to move into his swamp. Full of both humor and romance, the show turns the fairy tale genre on its head, as Shrek discovers that happily ever after is possible even for ogres.

The cast was made up of Folger McKinsey fourth- and fifth-graders, and being onstage wasn’t the only way students got involved. Stage and tech crews also involved students. The production presented opportunities for students to explore theater in the capacities that most interested them.

“I’m really proud of the hard work that they put in and proud of how consistent they were night after night doing this show,” said Andy Lawrie, the show’s music director.

Atticus Boidy, director of the production, explained that performing in the show was a new experience for many cast members. “The kids really work hard on something that a lot of them have never done before,” Boidy explained. “For a lot of the kids, this is the first time they’ve tried theater.”

The comedy of “Shrek The Musical Jr.” was one highlight of the show. Comedic timing from characters, such as Lord Farquaad and Donkey, had a lot of impact. Another high point for many members of both the cast and the audience was the song “I Think I Got You Beat.”

While the audience clapped for every song and scenes throughout the show received laughter, “I Think I Got You Beat” was seemingly the song that got the most laughs in the show. It was also a favorite moment for some of the actors, including Addie Oehling, who played Fiona.

In addition to getting to experience musical theater, the show also gave students a chance to bond with their classmates and work together to create something fun.

“Being with my friends in my first play, getting an awesome opportunity,” was Jocelyn Casciano’s favorite aspect of participating in the production. Jocelyn played the dragon.

Violet Edwards, who played Shrek, said, “All the silly things they had in the show, that’s what made it really fun.”

Each actor knew their lines and was confident about what they were supposed to do onstage. No one shied away from leaning into their character’s personality. From leads to ensemble, each cast member was important to the show, with some ensemble members playing multiple roles.

The parents and staff were clearly just as excited about the show as the students. “The support is incredible, and we’re lucky to have it,” Boidy said. “It’s a great program here.”

Though many of the students were new to musical theater, it was clear that they gave it their all. The classic story and the cast and crew’s passion for the show made it a joy to watch.

“I’m really hoping they continue with all this,” Lawrie said. “I think they’ve learned a lot through this process.”