The Class of 2022 Presents:
The Morton Reisman Operetta: Shrek Jr.
Thursday, March 24, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 27, 2:00 p.m.

Last year, due to COVID-19, we were unable to put on a live show and instead, filmed a movie. There aren't many similarities between the production of this year's Operetta Shrek Jr. and our movie from last year, other than they are both for entertainment purposes. 

On the other hand, there are so many differences between the two. In the live show, you have to memorize all of your lines, where you need to be on stage (Blocking) and to not mess up because there's only one show. In a movie, you don't need to memorize anything and you get as many attempts as you need to get it right. If you mess up your lines when filming, you can re-do it, but in the live show we are putting on this year, you only have one chance to get it right. 

“It's performed in front of a live audience, which can lead to stage fright and other issues." 
— Nate A.
In the movie, we recorded our lines with only Mr. Becker in the room, while in a live show, we have to perform all of it in front of a large group of people, which can be intimidating. 

“There is a lot more prep work for the live show. For the movie, you would just walk in and Mr. Becker would help us with our lines if we forgot.”
— Shai S.
For the live show, we not only have to memorize our lines and stage directions, but also assist in making all the props, spearheading advertising and marketing, creating costumes and so much more. The show couldn't possibly run smoothly without everyone putting in the work and working together. It's much much more of a team effort. 

Last year, all of our lines and acting and costumes were crafted and created by us, the students, but this year, we worked in committees to put the entire performance together and also worked as team to pull off the live show onstage. Read more below to hear more from the Class of 2022 cast of Shrek Jr.:

"You can have more fun with your grade and practice lines and run scenes together in the live show.”
— Emma V. 

“We get to collaborate with each other this year.”
— Ariel G. 
A very popular vote is that it's much more fun to work together than working alone due to COVID-19, like last year.

“Everybody needs and has to participate a lot more, so it's more of a team effort.”
— Maya L.

In conclusion, the 7th grade movie that debuted last year didn't allow us to work together. While the work was a lot easier due to technology and our awesome teacher Mr. Becker, we were missing that fun feeling of pulling something off as a team—the life-long memories and experience of working on an important project together.This year at the live shows, we're able to come together as an entire grade and have tons of fun in the process. And even though the work is a lot more challenging, the experience and performances for our community makes it worth it!

A shareable recording of both cast performances will be made available to our community following the performance. Students will have the opportunity to view Shrek Jr. by division this Thursday and Friday during school hours. Be sure to ask your child(ren) their thoughts on the performance!