Imagine a stage shrouded in darkness, smoke swirling, and an audience holding its breath in anticipation. This was the scene as Taylor Theatre boldly brought 'Shrek the Musical' to life at Mitchell Theatre. But here's where it gets intriguing: this wasn't just any musical; it was a production that seamlessly blended humor, heart, and thought-provoking themes, all while challenging traditional Christian art norms.
Directed by Tracy Manning, the managing and artistic director of Taylor Theatre, the show ran from November 14-16 and 20-22. Based on the beloved DreamWorks film 'Shrek' and William Steig’s book of the same name, the musical originally dazzled Broadway audiences before making its way to Taylor’s stage. Leading the cast were Mark Cosgrove as the lovable ogre Shrek, Gabrielle Hamilton as the spirited Princess Fiona, Milo Guevara as the witty Donkey, and Gavin Kastner as the comically villainous Lord Farquaad.
One of the standout elements, according to Kettie Olson, a sophomore psychology major and house manager, was the show’s humor. 'I always come in forgetting how funny it is,' she admitted, highlighting the musical’s ability to keep audiences laughing from start to finish.
And this is the part most people miss: While 'Shrek the Musical' isn’t a traditional Christian production—no hymns or Scripture readings here—it subtly weaves themes of goodness, truth, and beauty into its narrative. Olson noted that the cast’s commitment to honoring God through their performances was evident, even in a story that doesn’t explicitly mention faith. The musical also celebrates diversity, a principle rooted in the biblical idea that all people are created in God’s image.
Tracy Manning pointed out that the show isn’t just whimsical fun; it delves into deeper ideas. 'It has some really deep theological and philosophical truths,' she said, encouraging audiences to look beyond the surface. The musical tackles questions of identity, self-acceptance, and community, making it a rich experience for both heart and mind.
Taylor’s Theatre department takes a unique approach to art and expression, particularly when it comes to works not traditionally considered Christian. Instead of avoiding or fearing secular themes, the program encourages students to engage with the world from a Christian perspective. 'Faith should be integrated into all aspects of life,' Manning emphasized, 'not confined to quiet time, church, or worship.'
This holistic approach is a hallmark of Taylor University as a whole. 'No matter the discipline, we’re attempting to integrate our faith, study, and life,' Manning explained. 'We’re not compartmentalized.'
Olson praised the musical’s ability to balance philosophical depth with lighthearted moments, ensuring audiences left both entertained and inspired. She also highlighted the camaraderie within Taylor’s theatre community, where students often wear multiple hats—like Hamilton, who played Fiona while also co-heading the costume department. This hands-on approach fosters well-rounded actors with experience both on and off stage.
The production’s attention to detail didn’t go unnoticed. Callie Davis, a sophomore nursing major, raved about the props and set design, particularly the intricate dragon. 'It was really cool to see it in action,' she said. 'You could tell how much effort went into it.'
But here’s the controversial question: Can a musical like 'Shrek' truly be considered a vehicle for Christian principles, even without overt religious messaging? Manning and Olson believe so, arguing that its themes of diversity, self-acceptance, and community align with biblical values. What do you think? Does art need to be explicitly religious to reflect faith, or can it do so subtly through its themes and messages?
'Shrek the Musical' wasn’t just a show—it was a testament to the power of art to entertain, challenge, and inspire. And for the Taylor Theatre community, it was a labor of love that brought them closer together, both on and off the stage.
