Get Out of Your Swamp and Into the Theater: Brookwood School Presents Shrek the Musical
Brookwood School invites the community to step into a fairytale like no other with its all-school musical production of Shrek the Musical. Bursting with humor and heart, this beloved Broadway hit brings the story of everyone’s favorite ogre to life.
Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks animated film, Shrek the Musical features laugh-out-loud moments and a heartfelt message about friendship and self-acceptance. With a cast spanning multiple grade levels, Brookwood’s production showcases the collaborative spirit and talent that define the school’s Performing Arts program.
Under the artistic direction and choreography of Tara Lynn Steele, Shrek the Musical promises dazzling dance numbers, colorful costumes, and dynamic storytelling. Steele, a professional performer and dance instructor from New York, returns to Brookwood with her signature energy and expertise.
“Shrek is such a joyful and cheeky show to bring to life,” says Steele. “It challenges our students not only as performers, but as storytellers. Each character is wonderfully layered, and the heart of this show resonates deeply with students of all ages.”
Audiences will follow Shrek, a lovable ogre content with his quiet swamp life, as he embarks on an unexpected journey alongside the talkative Donkey to rescue Princess Fiona and confront the comically villainous Lord Farquaad. Along the way, the cast of fairy tale creatures adds humor and plenty of personality.
The students at the center of the story are equally enthusiastic about their roles:
“Playing Shrek has been so rewarding,” said Rett Groeneveld ‘26. “He’s rough around the edges, but he has a huge heart. Learning how to balance humor with vulnerability has been really special.”
“Fiona is such a strong and complex character,” shared Reagan Burrus ‘27. “She’s funny, brave, and unapologetically herself. Being able to grow with this character on stage has been incredibly empowering.”
“Donkey brings so much joy to the show,” James Mizell ‘26 states. “He’s energetic, loyal, and never stops talking, which makes rehearsals a lot of fun. This cast feels like family, and that really shines through in the performance.”
With elaborate sets, engaging choreography, and a full ensemble of fairytale favorites, Shrek the Musical is a celebration of imagination and inclusivity.
Performances will take place at the Thomasville Municipal Auditorium on Friday, February 6 at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, February 7 at 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, February 8 at 2:00 p.m.
Welcome to the Swamp: The swamp comes to life as the fairytale creatures rehearse choreography for Brookwood’s all-school production of Shrek the Musical.
Ogre-Sized Energy: Big characters and even bigger personalities fill the stage during Shrek the Musical rehearsals.
Students collaborate across all grade levels, Junior Kindergarten through twelfth grade, to bring Shrek the Musical to life.
Reagan Burrus ‘27, Rett Groeneveld ‘26, and James Mizell ‘26 take center stage in Brookwood School’s Shrek the Musical.
Located in Thomasville, GA, Brookwood School is a private school for grades JK-12. Students benefit from a challenging academic program, fine and performing arts, competitive athletics, and a wide selection of extracurricular activities.