Dozens of individuals brought their own talents, creativity, and dedication and built something truly special in the Upper School production of "Shrek the Musical." Audiences fell in love with Shrek, Donkey, Fiona, and the rest of the amazing cast and crew. Jared Eberlein, first-year Belfry Theatre Director and US Theatre Arts teacher, felt that a musical succeeds when many people come together as one to tell a story. "Shrek the Musical" was complex and had to be carefully put together like a puzzle. 

“This group of actors, dancers, builders, makeup and costume crews, designers, musicians, painters, technicians, and student and parent volunteers in the front of house all knew their work was part of something bigger, and they created an incredible production,” said Eberlein. “Because the work was so collaborative, thoughtful, and authentic, audiences left feeling connected to the heart of the show. To me, there is nothing greater in theatre or education than creating experiences that connect people, stories, and ideas.”

Bringing to life "Shrek the Musical" embodied a tenet of GA’s mission, Collaborative in Action. This sense of collaboration was felt across all areas of the production. In the following Q&A, two of the lead performers, Declan Dean ’26 (Shrek - DD) and Lauren Sass ’26 (Fiona - LS), share their perspective. 

What was the single best thing about the show?

LS - Seeing the joy on the audience's faces after months of hard work. We spend so much time together building friendships, putting our all into the roles we are given, and trying to make the characters personal to us. It is not always certain whether it all will “land,” so I loved seeing the audience having fun. It made it even more meaningful. 

DD - The single best thing about the show was the community that was built. This was by far the most committed cast for the most absurd show. No one was afraid to fulfill their role and do it with passion!

This was a very large cast with big musical numbers. Was it hard to keep everyone on point?

LS - Everyone was very focused, so even though it was a big show, our production crew did a great job keeping everyone polished. The way our schedule was broken down made it easy to concentrate on specific musical numbers. We had our blocked rehearsal times in person. There were also dance rehearsal videos and music tracks, so you could practice outside of rehearsal as well on your own. 

DD -Having such a large cast does make precise dance numbers more complicated. That being said, the cast’s willingness to commit to and produce a successful show made it easier for group numbers to come along. Much of the cast was able to memorize their steps shortly after the initial choreography was taught.

There were 28 seniors in/working on this show. What do you hope the underclassmen take away from this experience?

LS - It was incredible that we had 28 seniors working on this production. I hope younger students who are thinking of getting involved take the leap. There truly is something for everyone. There are tons of ways to get involved both on and off stage. It’s such a fun experience, and it gives you the chance to connect with students you might never have met otherwise. Everyone comes to Belfry with differing levels of experience, so you shouldn’t ever feel intimidated.

DD - I really hope the freshmen savor the experience that the rich community that Belfry provides. There’s no place like it anywhere else. It’s a group where students from different areas of the school all come together.

What was your favorite scene?

LS - My favorite scene was my opening song, “I Know It’s Today.” Getting to collaborate with Sydney E. ’34 and Jia L. ’30 was inspiring. While we all played Princess Fiona, our varying perspectives brought something different to the character. The rehearsal process with them was so much fun. I am very grateful that we were able to connect everyone to Belfry in that song. 

What has been your favorite experience as a member of the Belfry Club (throughout all four years)? 

LS - I have been lucky enough to have so many amazing experiences in Belfry, but a highlight for me was starting the Belfry Workshop Day last year during Mamma Mia with Ms. (Annie) Esposito. As a Belfry officer, I thought, what better way than to involve the next generation of our club. On a Saturday morning before the musical, actors and technicians volunteer their time to teach younger students a song and dance from the show and play a variety of acting games. They also get a behind-the-scenes view of our set and can ask us questions about how we are able to build a production. I am very proud of the joy we brought to future Belfry performers!  

While this chapter is ending for these seniors, the next one is just beginning. Sass and Dean are both going to have their own happy endings as they pursue acting and a BFA in college next year. They might be coming soon to a stage (or movie or streaming channel) near you!