The story of “Shrek” is well-known. Since its creation, the characters and storyline, plus Smash Mouth’s songs, made for a timeless success. An ostracized ogre undergoes a harrowing adventure to save a princess while finding love and friendship on the way. This fan-favorite story was adapted into a musical in 2008, leading to a multitude of Tony Award nominations and Drama Desk Awards. This year, the beloved musical returns with a fresh face and new cast but the same enjoyable experience.
It is difficult to breathe new life into a beloved story while maintaining its charm. Jeanine Tesori and David Lindsay-Abaire reframed the focus of “Shrek The Musical” to emphasize self-love and promote authenticity within yourself. This “familiar yet refreshingly new” take includes a smaller cast and crew that bring with them a more intimate performance.
Of course, what would Shrek be without its dragon? The talented Tori Kocher brings the fire to this character as one of the cast members bringing the musical to life. In between performances, Kocher sat down for an interview to discuss the revitalization of “Shrek the Musical” and her journey leading up to this role.
Beginning her career in theater at a young age, Kocher attended Belmont University for a BFA in musical theater and began performing full-time soon after. Her draw to audition for Shrek is similar to why fans watch it: a love for the story. Kocher explained that “I have a connection with the original movie. I watched it a lot, and it was one of my favorites.”
This love is not the only motivation, however. Kocher was part of the musical playing Fiona as a kid and loved being in it.
“It’s also a show very about acceptance and celebrating differences, and that’s something I really see myself being an important part of. It’s not just a fun show, it has a great message behind it,” she said about the musical.
Even with big shoes to fill, 2024’s “Shrek the Musical”…
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