School Hall
Classes 3+
4th - 6th February
Tickets: £10 (Adult ) / £5 (Child)
Following the huge successes of Beauty and the Beast (2024) and Matilda (2025), directors Eilidh Smith and James Cumming announced to pupils on Friday that the musical in 2026/27 academic year will be Shrek - an adaptation of the Oscar-winning DreamWorks animated film and junior version of the Broadway musical by David Lindsay-Abaire (Book & Lyrics) and Jeanine Tesori (Music).
“Shrek is our most ambitious musical yet. Over the years the pupils have shown so much dedication and enthusiasm for each new musical, so we think they are more than ready for this production," says Eilidh & James.
"The songs are brilliant and there are so many characters to allow our young people to shine. We chose this family-friendly production to ensure all performers have an opportunity to develop creative skills and feel proud of themselves.
Beauty is in the eye of the ogre in Shrek The Musical JR., based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film and fantastic Broadway musical. It's a "big, bright, beautiful, world" as everyone's favorite ogre, Shrek, leads a cast of fairytale characters on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and part adventure story, Shrek JR. is a fun show with a powerful message for the whole family.
Once upon a time, in a far away swamp, there lived an ogre named Shrek. One day, Shrek finds his swamp invaded by banished fairytale characters who have been cast off by Lord Farquaad, a tiny terror with big ambitions. When Shrek sets off with a wisecracking Donkey to confront Farquaad, he's handed a task — if he rescues feisty princess Fiona, his swamp will be righted. Shrek tries to win Fiona’s love and vanquish Lord Farquaad, but an adventure wouldn't be complete without a few twists and turns along the way.
There are over 35 roles, as well as Ensemble making up the backbone of the musical. With abundant opportunities for imaginative sets and costumes, and a host of over-the-top roles for an expandable cast, there's a part for everyone in this dazzling adventure story.
Edinburgh Steiner School's Music Instructor, Kathy Loisel, will once again collaborate with James & Eilidh to bring the songs of this Musical to fruition. As well as attending rehearsals, Mrs Loisel will accompany the pupils on piano.
Songs in the Jr version include Story of my Life, What's Up Duloc, I know Its Today, Travel Song, Forever, This is How A Dream Comes True, Morning Person, I Think I Got You Beat, Make A Move, Freak Flag, Big Bright Beautiful World, I'm a Believer and more.
GCSE Art Teacher, Didi Jellema and Class 10 pupils last year painted three impressively-sized slats to set the scenes for Matilda. Ms Jellema will once again work with Upper School pupils to bring the set-heavy Shrek production to life.
Shrek The Musical Jr is a not-for-profit hour-long extra-curricular production, with a weekend dress rehearsal and four showings in February.
"We all see the benefits for pupils coming together, but also the shear joy and depth of positivity, happiness and good feelings a large event generates," adds Head of School, Nick Brett.
"It brings pupils to the stage and enables them to be someone that grows their confidence and well being."
"We all see the benefits for pupils coming together, but also the shear joy and depth of positivity, happiness and good feelings a large event generates," adds Head of School, Nick Brett.
"It brings pupils to the stage and enables them to be someone that grows their confidence and well being."
