Fairytale Core finds happy ending

The key elements to pulling off any successful performance include the lead actors, supporting cast (core), and the production crew. As Ada High continues to prepare Shrek The Musical, the fairytale core is hard at work.

A “core” is a group supporting roles that handle the majority of the backup songs and dances of a production. While still having their own performances, these characters help move the story along and further engage the audience.

The fairytale core in Shrek adds onto those responsibilities by helping each scene flow naturally as well as making the audience experience a range of emotions. They rely on each other and operate as one throughout the musical.

“We do everything together like a unit,” said Josh Frederick (Pinocchio).

Like an onion…or an ogre… this quick-witted musical has many layers to it. Every character, core or lead, shares the same job of learning lines and stage directions. They work diligently during rehearsal in hopes to live up to everyone’s expectations of Shrek, both the movies and the Broadway production; the fairytale creatures are a trademark and are iconic to the Shrek story.

“I like to consider fairytale core the backbone of the musical,” said Eric Crowell, one of The Three Little Pigs. “We’re part of the foundation.”

Additionally, with any great cast, there’s a great director helping it all come together.

According to core members such as Rylee Shurtleff (The White Rabbit), director Merrie Palmer has been a huge help during rehearsals.

Shurtleff said, “She sets us straight, and pushes us to be the best we can be.”

The core overall is considered the “Herald” archetype in this particular “Hero’s journey.” They motivate the hero, Shrek, into action, which ultimately weaves the first thread of our tale.

The story begins when Lord Farquaad banishes the fairy tale creatures to an ogre’s swamp. This ogre, Shrek, is outraged by the infestation and is sent on his way to the kingdom where things continue to unfold.

“Without fairytale core, the show loses the story,” said junior Valeria Oseguera (Mama Bear).

Some students such as Izy Wilkerson, have a slightly different job on their hands. The sophomore will be playing the dragon, a role that comes with its own set of challenges to conquer.

“My part is somewhat of a solo act; I have my own little special spot,” said Wilkerson. “I’m trying to put more soul into my singing and let loose to really capture the whole dragon essence that comes with being this big scary creature.”

The core itself includes characters anywhere from Fairy godmother to Peter Pan and the cast agrees that each role adds to the musical whether it be by humor, song, or strife.

“Core is a very important thing. Every single role is important,” said Shurtleff.

The students are confident in their ability to prepare their parts and put in the work to produce a great show.

To put it best, in the words of Frederick, “People are going to freaking love Shrek.”