WILLITS, CA., 7/30/25 – A beloved big screen story takes to the stage when the Willits Community Theatre’s “Shrek the Musical Jr.” opens Friday at SPAC at Willits Charter School.
The heartwarming and humorous story is based on a book by William Steig and the Dreamworks movie.
Written by David Lindsay-Abaire with music composed by Jeanine Tesori, “Shrek the Musical Jr.” follows the good-natured ogre Shrek as he fights to keep his swamp from being taken away from him by the not-so-nice Lord Farquaad. Amidst the comical chaos, Shrek also rescues a princess from an evil dragon — and yes, Shrek’s bestie Donkey is along for the ride.
The musical features over 20 young actors, all performers in the Willits Community Theatre’s Gateway to the Stage summer program. Actors include Aidan Hult as Shrek, Desa Holt as Fiona, Cori Balthrop as Donkey, Addison Hulsey as the Dragon and Amiel Hult and Illia Pavlov as Lord Farquaad. Other players include Cedar L’Angelle, Leila Clarke, Rose Groah, Daylee Ward, Miles Fainer, Tula Clark, Miles Mattson, James Mattson, Dylilah Lawson, Delaney Burkhead, Norah Henckell, Scarlett Schwindt, Noah Smith, Luna France, Finn Shipp, Meadow Waluk, and DeeOra Fredricey.
The show is directed by Joni McLeod, best known for her presence on and behind the stage at Ukiah Players Theatre and SPACE.
“The show offers an opportunity for the kids to get immersed in the Shrek storyline and actually explore what being these characters mean,” said McLeod. “A lot of the story is about loving yourself for who you are.”
“Shrek the Musical Jr.” opens Friday, Aug. 1 and runs through Aug. 10 at the SPAC at the Willits Charter School, 1431 S. Main St., Willits. Tickets start at $15 and are available at https://www.wctperformingartscenter.org or at the door.