NPMS spring musical ‘Shrek Jr.’ opens Friday

Beginning Friday, March 13, New Prague Middle School will have four performances of fun and music as it presents “Shrek The Musical Jr.” for its spring musical. The show, based on the popular animated movie, will be at the middle school auditorium, 721 Central Ave. N with tickets available at the door. Showtimes are 7 p.m. March 13, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, and 2 p.m. Sunday, March 15. Today (Thursday, March 12) there is also a senior preview at 3 p.m.

There are 60 students in grades sixth through eighth participating in the musical about the ogre Shrek who joins with the talking Donkey to rescue the Princess Fiona for the Lord Farquaard. While a seemingly straightforward storyline, it gets turned on its head in many ways. Directing the musical are middle school music teacher Jane Samsal and seventh grade science teacher Zach Johnson, who has a background in theater. The two are also getting help from parents who are volunteering. Johnson is taking care of the props and costumes.

“I do the music,” said Samsal, who is also taking care of the sound and the lights with help from students.

“With Shrek Jr. the music is so fun,” said Samsal, adding the students really enjoy the music. “It’s catchy, plus the humor is funny and there is a type for kids and adults.”

Samsal noted there is the addition of a moral. “It has a great message, be yourself,” she said, adding that....

To see more on this story pick up the March 12, 2020 print edition of The New Prague Times.