Thomaston Opera House’s theater program provides an opportunity for people of all ages to engage and participate in all forms of theater. Whether it’s acting on the stage, performing magic behind the scenes, or using your artistic abilities to bring a set to life. On Monday March 31st and Wednesday April 2nd, Thomaston Opera House will hold auditions for the 2025 production of Shrek The Musical.
“For me personally, my goal with any production is to bring quality theater to the local community. Going to a professional show can be costly for families and community theater is an opportunity for them to experience theater at a more affordable cost,” director Michael Calabrese remarked.
Set in a mythical “once upon a time” sort of land, Shrek the Musical is the story of a hulking green ogre who, after being mocked and feared his entire life by anything that crosses his path, retreats to an ugly green swamp to exist in happy isolation. Suddenly, a gang of homeless fairy-tale characters raid his sanctuary, saying they’ve been evicted by the vertically challenged Lord Farquaad. So Shrek strikes a deal: I’ll get your homes back, if you give me my home back! But when Shrek and Farquaad meet, the Lord strikes a deal of his own: He’ll give the fairy-tale characters their homes back, if Shrek rescues Princess Fiona. Shrek obliges, yet finds something appealing–something strange and different–about this pretty princess. He likes her. A lot. But why does she always run off when the sun sets? The show is being run by director Calabrese along with music direction by Beckie Scattergood, and choreography by Katherine Griffin.
Youth auditions will be from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM by appointment, which can be booked via email to Andrea@landmarkcommunitytheatre.org. While the adult auditions will be held from 7:00PM to 9:00PM, no appointment needed. Callbacks will be on Sunday April 6th. The minimum age to audition for young Shrek and young Fiona is 10, all other roles have an age minimum of 16.
When asked about the rehearsal schedule, Calabrese said, “A show typically rehearses 2 hours three times a week for about 3 months. As we get closer the rehearsals usually get a bit longer. Time management is key to getting a program up and running. Having a qualified Stage Manager who can keep the ship on course is vital. Lastly, COMMUNICATION. Like any major project, clear and regular communication helps keep you and your team on the same page.”
“Shrek is a show with a broad range. The show’s message of self-acceptance, celebrating differences, and redefining what makes someone a ‘hero’ resonates across generations and demographics,” stated Calabrese. “Families with children and adults who grew up with the film will all appreciate the fun and humor. Shrek is a show that champions the outcasts and underdogs. It’s a production with heart, humor, and a message that truly speaks to everyone.”
