Staff Writer: Addysen Curtis
In the beginning of month, I, Addysen Curtis, took part in Shrek, the musical at Bainbridge Little Theater where I played the waffle-loving character Donkey!
The full production process with practices started early August and went on to the first week of October when we opened to the public with multiple sold-out nights in a row. The show consisted of a 40+ person cast, crazy sets, tons of wonderful singing, and iconic lines that left the audience laughing their butts off while reminiscing of the original 2001 movie. I loved this show from the very beginning, but it could not have been done without the help of our director, Krystal Apke!
Krystal is the Bainbridge High School Theater teacher, GHSA One-Act coach, and an amazing mother and wife. While tackling this show, she was also preparing the Bainbridge Drama Club’s One Act production of, The Addams Family. She noted that both shows required so much time, energy, and creativity which caused her to feel like she was being pulled in multiple directions; however, she did not let it hinder her from doing what she loves.
In an interview with Apke, she unveiled the secret behind how doing it all, “I genuinely could not have done either production without the incredible people working alongside me. Having a team you trust, who shares your vision and is willing to step up, makes all the difference. I think one of the biggest lessons in leadership is realizing that you don’t have to do everything yourself!”
Now, what is Shrek the musical without our Shrek? Shrek was played by Bainbridge Middle School Chorus teacher and Drama club director, Connor Griffin. In an interview with Connor, he shined a light on how this show connected with him on a deeper level for he was a person who struggled to fit in kind of like Shrek. A touching part of his statement was when Connor, Reagan (Fiona), and I sung “Who I’d Be” because it helped express how he has felt for a while and it he stated, “I hope this show helped people see it’s okay not to be the handsome prince or to have a fancy castle. It’s totally fine to be the ogre, and you’ll always find the Fiona and Donkey you’re meant to have.”
Shrek the Musical was such an amazing experience and despite the late nights and very hot costume the memories I had were worth it! If you ever want to see the show for yourself, it will be out soon on the Bainbridge Little Theater’s YouTube channel!