Behind the Scenes of Shrek The Musical

Beachwood Bison Theater’s production of Shrek The Musical takes the stage March 7 - 9. Featuring a cast of 23 high school and middle school performers, the show delivers humor, heart, and high-energy performances. Lead actors DeShaun Williams, Rachel Kantarovich, and Michael Karas share their favorite moments, how they connect with their characters, and what makes this production unforgettable. Be sure to check out the digital playbill for even more highlights.

DeShaun Williams (Donkey)

What do you enjoy most about playing Donkey, and in what ways do you connect with this character? 

For me, Donkey has been a drastic change from the roles I’m used to, but the character has pushed me to be more extroverted both on stage and in my daily life. Overall, I’ve found it the most fun to just act silly on stage and give as much energy as possible whenever we're performing.

What is your favorite line or scene?  

The entirety of Don’t Let Me Go is one of the most bizarre and taxing scenes I’ve ever done, yet it’s easily one of my favorites. From running around the stage, being overly dramatic, and really trying to express the song, it’s an incredibly exciting scene. Afterwards, I’m just trying to catch my breath, but it’s a great feeling to know I give it my all every time.

What else would you like to share about Shrek The Musical? 

I think the way we as actors embrace the show’s theme – "what makes us special makes us strong" – is really meaningful. We truly try to embody this message as we grow more comfortable in our characters, which makes the show even better. In doing so, we hope to inspire others to be confident in their own uniqueness as they tackle life.

---

Rachel Kantarovich (Princess Fiona)

What do you enjoy most about playing Princess Fiona, and in what ways do you connect with this character? 

What I love most about playing Princess Fiona is bringing her bold and unpredictable nature to life. Having been locked away in a tower for most of her life, she lacks the usual social cues. But throughout the show, you can really see her growth and development, and it’s rewarding to portray that transformation.

What is your favorite line or scene? 

My favorite scene in the show is during the song I Think I Got You Beat. It's a pivotal moment where Shrek and Fiona begin to truly understand one another. Despite their outward differences, they start to realize how much they have in common as they playfully compete with each other.

What else would you like to share about Shrek The Musical? 

Shrek the Musical is a fun show for the entire family, focusing on love, self-acceptance, and accepting others. It inspires kindness and encourages people to spread positivity.

---

Michael Karas (Lord Farquaad)

What do you enjoy most about playing Lord Farquaad, and in what ways do you connect with this character? 

Playing Lord Farquaad has been a ride, to say the least. He’s a 3'5" lord who is flamboyant and dramatic. I connect with him in some ways – aside from his egotistical behavior – because he’s so extra and makes up for his height with his larger-than-life personality.

What is your favorite line or scene? 

I personally enjoy my What’s Up, Duloc number. It’s fun, it’s upbeat, and the amount of energy makes it such an exciting performance. The mix of comedy and dance in this number makes it one very memorable song.

What else would you like to share about Shrek The Musical?

Shrek The Musical is an upbeat show about loving yourself even in the face of adversity. The fairy tale creatures can’t change who they are, which mirrors basic human nature. A person shouldn’t have to change because one person has a negative opinion.