The swamp is coming to life this fall as Florida Repertory Theatre’s 2025 Conservatory proudly presents Shrek the Musical, Jr. Based on the beloved DreamWorks Animation film and the book by William Steig, this musical comedy brings everyone’s favorite ogre to the stage in a big, bright, beautiful way.
With book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori, Shrek the Musical has become a modern family classic. Originally produced on Broadway by DreamWorks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions, the show includes toe-tapping hits like Neil Diamond’s “I’m a Believer” as well as hilarious original songs such as “Welcome to Duloc” and “Freak Flag.”
This Conservatory production is directed by Monique Caldwell (Florida Rep’s Education Director), with choreography by Megan Leonard and music direction by Roz Metcalf. Together, this powerhouse creative team leads a talented cast of Conservatory students through the colorful world of Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, Lord Farquaad, and all the fairytale misfits who remind us that beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder.
Meet the Creative Team
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Director – Monique Caldwell
A seasoned theatre educator and director with more than 25 years of experience, Monique has helmed Florida Rep Conservatory favorites including Fame, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin Jr., and more. She is passionate about helping young artists grow both on and off the stage. -
Choreographer – Megan Leonard
An NYU Tisch graduate and proud member of Actors’ Equity, Megan has choreographed Metamorphoses, Heathers, and Hairspray for Florida Rep’s Conservatory, in addition to performing in national tours across the country. -
Music Director – Roz Metcalf
A longtime Florida Rep collaborator, Roz brings joy and precision to every production. Her work ensures that this cast’s hard work shines in every note of Shrek Jr.. -
Designers & Crew
Scenic design by Charles Clark, costumes by Amanda Miller, sound design by Braden Downing, and props by Miranda White and Laura Lumetta all promise to bring the magical swamp to life with creativity and flair.
The Cast of Characters
From ogres to fairy-tale creatures, this cast of Conservatory students brings the story to life:
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Shrek – Dylan Perez
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Donkey – Bruno Chagas
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Princess Fiona – Sophia Guth (9/12, 9/14, 9/20) / Zoey Levangie (9/13, 9/19, 9/21)
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Lord Farquaad – Viktor Sweeney
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Dragon – Katie Cook
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Gingy – Sarah Salerno, Reese Rainero
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Pinocchio – Phybee Whiteleather, Genesis Allbritton
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…and many more talented performers in a full cast of over 50 students!
With storytellers, fairy-tale creatures, knights, rats, and Duloc citizens, this ensemble showcases the depth of talent in Florida Rep’s Conservatory.
The Story
Follow Shrek as he sets off on a quest to rescue Princess Fiona from the tower of a fire-breathing dragon. Along the way, he begrudgingly teams up with the ever-loyal Donkey, discovers Fiona’s surprising secret, and learns that friendship and love often come in unexpected forms.
Featuring lively numbers like “Big Bright Beautiful World,” “I Know It’s Today,” and “Freak Flag,” the show is a heartwarming reminder to celebrate what makes us unique.
Behind the Scenes
Florida Rep’s production team and interns have poured their creativity into this show. From hand-crafted props to imaginative costumes and sets, every detail adds to the magic of the swamp. Tech week is right around the corner, and the excitement is building to see all of the elements come together!
Performance Details
🎭 Florida Rep Conservatory Presents
Shrek the Musical, Jr.
Directed by Monique Caldwell | Choreography by Megan Leonard | Music Direction by Roz Metcalf
📅 Performances: September 12 – September 21, 2025
📍 Florida Repertory Theatre
This production is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are supplied by MTI. Learn more at www.mtishows.com.
✨ Get ready to laugh, cheer, and believe in happily-ever-afters again. Don’t miss your chance to see these incredible young performers bring the swamp to life on stage!