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     The Oswego Children’s Theater’s latest production “Shrek the Musical” will feature a much larger than usual sized character in the form of a life-sized dragon. 

     The vocal role of the dragon will be played by veteran actress Caroline Gray.  The body of the beast however, will be portrayed by a full-sized Dragon puppet manipulated by other individuals.

     The process of designing and executing this huge marionette began several weeks ago. First the basic framework of the creature was assembled and hung from the ceiling of the Mosher’s dining room with hooks. Next, the dragon was covered with fabric to form a “skin.”  The process of building the legs and feet next, followed by attaching both legs and the head. Then the control system was installed and the unit tested. Lastly the puppeteers were trained and the beast was introduced at a rehearsal.

     The Dragon was designed and executed by Kelly Mosher and Flo Ross assisted by Lyndsie Lee Jones, and Carla Larkin.

     In addition to the Dragon, the production features a huge cast of area youth including Doug Schneider in the role of Shrek, Leah Mullen as Fiona, Catrina Edwards as Donkey, and Ryan Smith as Lord Farquad. 

     Other cast members include Ethan Cliff as Little Shrek, Audrey Donavan as Pig #1 Arianna Jones as a Bunny, Abigail Lareau as the Pig #2, Madeline Loomis as Teen Fiona, Maya Loomis as the Shoemaker’s Elf,  Tegan Margrey as Alice in Wonderland, Mason Margrey as Dumbo, Baxter Mason as Pinocchio, Zander Mason as the Ugly Duckling, Grace Mason as Young Fiona, Ashley Mills as The Sugar Plum Fairy, Odin Mosher as the Dish with the Spoon, Megan Murtha as The Fairy Godmother, Ella Shambo as the Pied Piper, Issac Shambo as Grumpy the Dwarf, Tate Shambo as Puss-n-Boots, Julianna Smith as Gingy, Gregory Thomas as the Cow who jumped over the moon, and Faith Washington as the Wicked Witch. In addition the supporting cast appears in multiple other roles as townspeople, Guards, and various fairy tale characters.

     "Shrek the Musical” was adapted for the stage by David Lyndsay-Abaire, who wrote the book and lyrics, with music by Jeanine Tesori. The show is directed by Lyndsie Lee Jones, with Music Director Kenneth C Jones, assisted by Dan Williams and Wayne A Mosher Jr.  The Show is produced By Kelly Mosher, who will also costume design with Florence Ross. Abby Field will act as Stage Manger assisted by Faith Washington. Make-up designer will be Amanda Mosher. Adam Thompson will assist with the lights. “Shrek the Musical is presented through special arrangement with Music Theater International (MTI).

     The Oswego Children’s Theater were at the Farmers' Market on July 3 to give a taste of what is ahead the following week performing at 5:30 p.m.  They will also be in the Fourth of July Parade on July 6.  Matthew Magrisi, owner of ECO-Foam Insulators, Inc. is the sponsor of the theater troupe for the parade. Matt was an original member of the Technical Crew for Oswego Children’s Theater. The production is slated to be performed July 11, 12, 18, and 19 at 7:30 p.m. with matinee performances on July 13, 19 and 20, at 2 p.m. All performances will be in the theater space at the New Haven Congregational Church, located on State Route 104 East between Oswego and Mexico. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for students. For reservations and more information call 315-342-5265.  You may also email oswegochildrenstheater@hotmail.com for information or reservations.