“Let your freak flag fly!” Ogres rule at the PPP

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Freak flags were flying during the opening weekend of Shrek the Musical at the Poplar Pike Playhouse. Audience members loved the singing, dancing, and telling of the well-known story, which is based on William Steig’s book Shrek! and the hit animated film of the same title. “It is an amazing story from a quest of old Ogre. It takes those archetypes and turns and twists them around,” said Stephanie Thomas.

The musical follows the story of a gigantic green ogre, Shrek, who goes on a life- changing adventure to reclaim his land after discovering his swamp overrun by fairytale characters. He is joined by a wisecracking donkey. The unlikely hero defends off a frightful dragon to rescue a feisty princess and learns the true meaning of love and friendship.

While the human cast is fun and energetic, the story embraces a powerful message of acceptance: to be beautiful means to be yourself. “There are many small details in the movie Shrek, and that’s really hard to put that on stage with the students. It was captured so well.” said longtime PPP patron Jonathan Whitehead.

Students involved in Germantown High School’s Creative and Performing Arts program not only work onstage, but also behind the scenes to bring this production to life. Jordan Bernardini, a GHS alum and PPP patron, remarked, “From what I can tell the students do almost everything. I’m amazed by the set. I’m amazed by all the props.”

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“It was fun attendng a musical of a movie that my children watch and seeing them smile, laughing, and singing along to the songs,” said Elizabeth Stuart. Come out and experience this magical and entertaining comedy! Shrek the Musical runs until March 7th. Tickets can be purchased at PPP.org or by calling the Poplar Pike Playhouse’s box office at (901) 755-7775. Tickets can be reserved in advance and a discount is available with the use of promo codes on the PPP’s daily updated social media pages (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram). The Poplar Pike Playhouse is located on the campus of Germantown High School.