Courtesy Photo
MEEKER | While this time of year generally heralds the arrival of a big guy in a red suit, a different character—a greener, grouchier one—is coming to town ahead of that other guy next week.
Meeker Arts and Cultural Council (MACC) Center Stage Youth Theatrical Group is bringing a seventh top notch production to Meeker with the Broadway hit Shrek: The Musical. Actors from third through ninth grade will tell the story of hulking ogre Shrek as he finds true love amid a diverse set of supporting characters. Featuring fairy tale creatures, adventure, romance, mystery, humor, music and more, this heartwarming play is sure to delight children and adults alike.
“This is just a great story and we have a knack for casting kids in their appropriate role,” producer Gary Zellers said.
Fellow producer Laurie Zellers stated, “The characters that come alive with each child’s personal work, creativity and talent are immense and captivating.”
A group of dedicated local individuals have contributed their time and resources to help the more than 45 young actors shine. These include Gary and Laurie Zellers (producers), Shana Holliday (director, musical Director, costume design and production), Nancy Richardson (set/props), John Kobald and Chris and Lynn Lockwood (props/puppets), Matt Holliday (sound), Bob Amick (technical director), Dawnine Squire (makeup), Vanessa Trout, Stephanie Kobald and Carmen McKay (ticket booth), Mandi Etheridge (programs), Kevin Amack (advertising art), Annelise Amack (stage manager), Sophia Goedert (music coordinator), Ben Quinn (scenic artist), Zach Clatterbaugh (set construction), and Charles Day, Sena Zellers, Bren Crow and Gahge Lagimoniere (lighting technicians) and of course the parents and families of the cast members. ERBM Recreation and Park District, Meeker High School Drama Club, and the Meeker School District have contributed resources, as well.
Of course, the audience also plays an important supporting role. “The best part is the look on the kids’ faces and feeling their sense of accomplishment when they hear the crowd applaud,” Gary Zellers said. “It’s always a treat to see the actual production as opposed to seeing practice.”
Past plays, which include Annie Jr., Cinderella, Seussical the Musical Jr., Hansel and Gretel, The Little Mermaid Jr, Alice in Wonderland, The Wizard of Oz (a joint production with the MHS Drama Club) and several dinner theaters, have proven Meeker’s thespians know to put on a truly terrific show.
Mark your calendars and bring your best applause for Shrek: The Musical at the Meeker High School Auditorium, 550 School St., Dec 1 and 2 and 6:30 p.m. and Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. Admission is $7; kids kindergarten through eighth grade are free when accompanied by a paying ninth grade through adult attendee. Tickets will be handed out to elementary and middle school students the week of production.
To find out more about getting involved in future productions, contact MACC at 970-439-0183 or [email protected] or attend a meeting, held the first Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Heritage Culture Center, 517 Park Ave.
