‘Shrek The Musical TYA’ brings big laughs, big heart to Miracle Theatre

Coral Gables audiences will head to the swamp this summer—and they may not want to leave. Beginning Saturday, July 5, Shrek The Musical TYA will take over the Miracle Theatre stage on Miracle Mile with a monthlong run of family-friendly performances that reimagine the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film as a live musical comedy full of heart, mischief, and toe-tapping tunes.

Presented by Actors’ Playhouse, the Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) production runs Saturdays at 2 p.m. through July 26, with an additional sensory-inclusive performance scheduled for Sunday, July 13, at the same time. Tickets are $35 and available through the Miracle Theatre box office at (305) 444-9293 or online.

This version of Shrek The Musical is streamlined for young audiences, but adults will find plenty to enjoy in the show’s quick wit, vibrant score, and visual spectacle. The production features music by Tony Award-winner Jeanine Tesori (Caroline, or Change; Thoroughly Modern Millie) and a book and lyrics by Pulitzer Prize winner David Lindsay-Abaire. Together, they bring to life a world where fairy tales are fractured, heroes come in all shapes and sizes, and love doesn’t follow the script.

At the center of the story is Shrek, played by Esqui, an unassuming ogre who prefers the solitude of his swamp but is thrust into action when his land is overrun by banished fairy tale creatures. To reclaim his peace, he agrees to rescue Princess Fiona—only to find she has a few surprises of her own. Alongside him is Donkey, the scene-stealing sidekick brought to life by Doriyan D. Caty, and an ensemble of lovable misfits that includes Pinocchio, Peter Pan, the Three Little Pigs, and a fire-breathing Dragon.

The cast features a mix of young and experienced performers, including Anneliese Wolfganger as Fiona, Brandon Campbell as the diminutive villain Lord Farquaad, and Catherine Viera as the powerful Dragon. Supporting roles include Alexa Seder as Gingy, Carolina Carmona as Young Fiona, Camila Pocovi as Teen Fiona, and Tristan Robertson, AJ Wolff, Francesca Kiglies, and others in a variety of fairy tale parts and comedic cameos.

With a tightly packed runtime, energetic staging, and colorful costuming, Shrek TYA is designed to hold the attention of even the youngest audience members—without sacrificing the cleverness that made the film a crossover classic.

The July 13 sensory-inclusive performance will include modifications to accommodate audience members with sensory sensitivities, including softer lighting, lower volume, and a relaxed theater environment. It’s part of a growing movement toward accessibility in children’s theater and an extension of Actors’ Playhouse’s commitment to inclusive programming.

The Miracle Theatre, located at 280 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables, is a beloved hub of the local arts scene and a short walk from some of the city’s best restaurants and cafés. Parking is available in nearby garages and metered spaces, and families are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy downtown Coral Gables before curtain.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of the green ogre or discovering his story for the first time, Shrek The Musical TYA promises a summer escape packed with humor, heart, and a valuable message: “What makes us special makes us strong.” Let the fairy tale begin.

Showtimes:

• Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. (July 5, 12, 19, and 26)
• Sensory Inclusive Performance: Sunday, July 13 at 2:00 p.m.

Location:
Miracle Theatre
280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, FL
Box Office: (305) 444-9293

Tickets: $35 Purchase Tickets

Author: Coral Gables Gazette News Staff

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