The Magic Behind the Curtain: Why a High School Shrek Musical is More Than Just a Show
There’s something undeniably captivating about a high school musical. It’s not just the singing, dancing, or even the glittering costumes—though those certainly help. What makes it truly special is the raw energy, the unfiltered passion, and the sheer audacity of young people daring to bring a story to life. When I heard about Coronado High School’s production of Shrek the Musical in El Paso, Texas, I wasn’t just intrigued; I was inspired. This isn’t just a local event—it’s a microcosm of creativity, resilience, and community that deserves a closer look.
The Dreamers Behind the Stage
One thing that immediately stands out is the diversity of talent involved. Students from across the El Paso Independent School District came together, not just as actors, but as designers, musicians, and crew members. Personally, I think this is where the real magic happens. Take Enzo Barraza, a sophomore who landed the role of Donkey—a character he calls a ‘dream role.’ What many people don’t realize is how rare it is for a younger student to snag such a prominent part. It’s a testament to his talent, sure, but also to the inclusive spirit of this production. If you take a step back and think about it, this is exactly what theater should be: a space where age and experience take a backseat to passion and potential.
Then there’s Joy Rios, who plays Princess Fiona. Her mention of 12-hour rehearsals ‘sweating it out’ to perfect the show is a detail that I find especially interesting. It’s easy to romanticize the final performance, but what this really suggests is the grit and determination behind the scenes. These students aren’t just putting on a play; they’re crafting an experience. And that, in my opinion, is what makes this production so compelling.
The Shrek Effect: More Than Meets the Eye
Shrek the Musical is an odd choice for a high school production—and that’s precisely why it’s brilliant. On the surface, it’s a quirky, family-friendly tale about an ogre finding acceptance. But dig deeper, and you’ll find themes of identity, belonging, and challenging societal norms. From my perspective, this is exactly the kind of story young people need to tell. It’s not just about entertaining an audience; it’s about sparking conversations and reflecting on what it means to be ‘different.’
What makes this particularly fascinating is how the students themselves relate to these themes. Ruben Martinez, who plays Shrek, has been part of EPISD’s summer musicals five times. His advice to aspiring actors—‘Put yourself out there and don’t be afraid’—is more than just a motivational soundbite. It’s a philosophy that resonates far beyond the stage. In a world where teenagers are constantly pressured to conform, this production feels like a rebellion of sorts. It’s a reminder that vulnerability and authenticity can be acts of courage.
The Hidden Heroes: Behind the Scenes
While the actors are the face of the show, the unsung heroes are the students building props, designing sets, and fine-tuning the music. These are the people who turn a script into a spectacle. What this really suggests is that theater is the ultimate team sport. Every role, no matter how small, is critical to the final product.
This raises a deeper question: Why don’t we celebrate these behind-the-scenes contributors more often? In my opinion, it’s because we’ve been conditioned to focus on the spotlight. But if you take a step back and think about it, the magic of theater lies in its collaborative nature. Without the prop designers, the musicians, or the stage managers, even the most talented actors would be lost.
The Broader Impact: Why This Matters
This production isn’t just about putting on a show; it’s about building a community. The fact that admission is free makes it accessible to everyone, which is a big deal in a city like El Paso. Personally, I think this is a brilliant move. It’s not just about entertaining; it’s about bringing people together.
But there’s another layer here that’s often overlooked: the long-term impact on the students involved. Theater teaches skills that go far beyond the stage—time management, problem-solving, empathy, and resilience. These are the kinds of lessons that stay with you for life. If you ask me, that’s the real value of productions like this.
Final Thoughts: The Show Must Go On
As the curtains rise on Shrek the Musical, I can’t help but feel a sense of optimism. This isn’t just a high school play; it’s a testament to what young people can achieve when given the opportunity. From the dreamers on stage to the heroes behind the scenes, every person involved has poured their heart into this production.
What this really suggests is that theater, at its core, is about connection. It’s about telling stories that matter and creating moments that linger long after the applause fades. So, if you’re in El Paso this July, do yourself a favor and catch this show. You won’t just be watching a musical—you’ll be witnessing the future of storytelling. And who knows? Maybe, just maybe, it’ll inspire you to ‘shoot your shot,’ just like Ruben Martinez said. After all, isn’t that what life’s all about?
