"Shrek" Cast Interview #1

   The next big show to take the stage in Huntington will be Skrek: The Musical, a Broadway show based on the beloved animated film. 

   Over the next few weeks we'll be presenting interviews with the cast! Let's start things off with the guy tackling the title role of a big, green and mean ogre. 

   Here's Ryan Jackson:

Q: Tell us the basic story of the musical comedy Shrek.

Ryan: The story essentially follows the plot of the first Shrek movie, but also includes some background as to how and why Shrek and Fiona end up the way that they do. It also expands upon the movie's central theme and message which is acceptance and tolerance. Additionally, it expands upon the lives of the fairytale creatures that find themselves on Shrek's swamp and pokes and prods into the bedtime fairytale stories our parents read to us every night. In the end, Shrek presents a very relatable and relevant message -- one of tolerance and acceptance of the differences of ourselves and others.

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Ryan: I am portraying Shrek in Shrek: The Musical who has a huge chip on his shoulder and has been dealt a bad hand in the card game called life. He has lived his life in isolation and has constantly been tormented by those who fear and despise him. However, when he meets an annoying donkey and a feisty princess, he discovers that despite all of his previous interactions with the outside world, there is a chance that he could possibly find a place in the world.

Q: What's your favorite part (or song) in the show?

Ryan: My favorite part and song is "Freak Flag." Although Shrek is absent from this scene, this song perfectly displays the message that is the focal point of the show, which is acceptance and tolerance. We should embrace our differences and accept the differences of others.

Q: Why did you want to be part of this show?

Ryan: I wanted to be part of this show because it was one of my favorite movies as a kid and Shrek is a role that I can really relate to. Plus everyone should have a shot at being a hero.

Q: This is a new show, never staged in this area - are you excited to be part of the first local cast to tackle it?

Ryan: It is really exciting to be the first local theatre in the region to tackle this massive and extremely elaborate show. But with the production and directing staff that is involved, there is no other group of people that I would trust to put on a truly magnificent show.

Q: Why would you recommend this show to our readers?

Ryan: I would recommend this show because it is appropriate for all ages. Bring your kids, parents or grandparents. Shrek is chock full of humor that will please audience members of all ages. The score is full of upbeat and exciting music as well as songs that will tug at your heartstrings. It is just an all-around amazing show.

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Ryan: Shrek: The Musical will be performed at the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center on Sept. 5, 6, 12, 13 and 14 at 8 p.m. and Sept. 7, 14 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. Go online to www.curtainsupplayers.org for all the info and to reserve your tickets today!

   Thanks, Ryan!