HARRISON — This summer, Deertrees Theatre invites audiences to step into a whimsical swamp of heart and hilarity with its family-friendly production of Shrek the Musical. But this isn’t just your average fairy tale. In a uniquely heartwarming twist, the cast features real-life families—parents and children, siblings, and spouses—performing side by side, bringing a new layer of authenticity and charm to this beloved Broadway hit.

In a true celebration of community, several family units will share the stage—some for the very first time—blending their natural bonds with the musical’s powerful themes of love, acceptance, and being unapologetically yourself. From a real mother-son duo playing Mama Ogre and Young Shrek, to a trio of sisters ages 3 to 8 dancing through the ensemble, the production is rich with genuine connection, local spirit, and theatrical magic.

“This year we’re really leaning into the community vibe of Shrek the Musical,” says Zack Balkcom, director of this production. “I’m so proud of how many families and couples are in the cast. It’s been amazing to see all these real-life connections bring even more heart to the story we’re telling together.”

Bursting with colorful costumes, toe-tapping numbers, and a script full of laughs and life lessons, Shrek the Musical offers an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The show also reinforces Deertrees Theatre’s commitment to inclusive, community-based storytelling that entertains while bringing people, ogres and all, closer together. Performances run June 20-22, 27-29, and tickets are available now at deertrees-theatre.org