Meet our Shrek

Jason Gingold (Shrek) is overjoyed to be performing in his 3^rd production at KFT. Last season he played the Cat in Honk! and Rooster Hannigan in Annie. Here is what he had to say about his experience in Shrek, the Musical:

"I love Shrek. The music is fantastic, the script is hilarious and moving, and the Kitsap Forest Theater is really the perfect place to perform a musical that takes place, well, in the forest. And, the joy of joys is that I feel absolutely blessed to play one of my dream roles."

"To me, Shrek is a story about transformation. When we meet Shrek, he is an outcast who has learned to cope with twenty years of ostracism, suffering and loneliness by lashing out at the world and accepting a fate of isolation. His journey to soften his heart, to “tear down the walls” (literal and figurative) and make space for others to be a part of his world is very moving to me. As an actor, showing that progression, from defended and angry to open-hearted, is a wonderful challenge. I think that Shrek, despite being an ogre, is one of the most human characters I’ve had the opportunity to play."

"The other beautiful part about this play is its message of acceptance. Shrek, Fiona, and the fairytale creatures must learn to accept who they are, and be willing to share that proudly with the world.  I think that message is very timely. We are living in a time when many people—for dozens of reasons—are struggling to accept themselves, and be accepted by the world. I love knowing that we are presenting a story that stands up for all the people who feel left out or “less than”. Everyone has a story to tell. Everyone has something beautiful inside them. Everyone is special. I can’t think of a play I’d rather be a part of at this time than this show."

"As the song says, “We are different. And united. You are us and we are you. This is our story.”"

"(Plus there’s a lot of fart jokes.)"

Thank you, Jason, for sharing how much this role means to you. We encourage everyone to purchase your tickets today and plan to attend this fabulous show - you won't be disappointed! Three more weekends left (Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 pm) to see the show - trail to the theater opens at 1:00 pm - come early for the best choice of seats.