Shrek the Musical Jr. Video Now Available!

 No more waiting! The Videos are here!

Dear Davis Families,

We’re thrilled to share that the videos from our spectacular production of Shrek the Musical Jr. are finally here! Get ready to revisit the laughter, heart, music, and unforgettable performances that brought the land of Duloc—and beyond—to life on our stage. Links and access details are provided below for your reference.

You may download the files directly from the links below!

 

Sunday 1pm:

https://blueorchidproductions.wistia.com/folders/3qerky9twg

 

 

Sunday 7pm:

 https://blueorchidproductions.wistia.com/folders/9l0gb1ecq5

 

  

Monday 6:30pm:

https://blueorchidproductions.wistia.com/folders/zyny7zs36i

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for your support, encouragement, and enthusiasm throughout this incredible journey. Whether you volunteered behind the scenes, helped with costumes, ran lines at home, or cheered from the audience, you played an important role in making this production such a success.

Shrek is much more than a fairy tale. At its core, it is a story about belonging, acceptance, friendship, courage, and celebrating what makes each of us unique. Through this production, our students learned far more than songs, choreography, and lines. They learned to collaborate, persevere through challenges, support one another, embrace their individuality, and build confidence in themselves and their community.

These lessons reflect the very values we strive to nurture at Davis every day: kindness, respect, courage, empathy, integrity, and the understanding that every person has something special to contribute. Much like the beloved characters in Shrek, our students discovered that true strength comes from being authentically themselves and lifting others up along the way.

There is truly nothing like a Davis Academy production. The artistry, professionalism, creativity, and heart displayed by our students continue to inspire us year after year. We are already dreaming about next season’s adventures and cannot wait to create more memories, tell more stories, and watch your extraordinary children shine on stage once again.

Until then, enjoy the show (again!), cherish these memories, and have a wonderful summer!

With gratitude and excitement,

Kendrick Phillips
Director of Visual & Performing Arts
The Davis Academy

Thank you, Final Thoughts, and Goodbye from the Swamp and Duloc!

 

BRAVO & FAREWELL, SHREK JR. 💚🐸👑

As the final bow is taken, the last piece of confetti falls, and we begin to step out of our swamp and back into everyday life, my heart is absolutely bursting with pride and gratitude for this extraordinary journey.

Working with your children has been a true gift.

From our youngest fairytale creatures to our seasoned middle school leaders, every single student brought joy, commitment, creativity, and heart to this production. Watching them grow—not just as performers, but as collaborators, problem-solvers, and confident young people—has been one of the greatest privileges of my work.

This is what makes our all-school musical so special. There are no divisions—no grade levels—just one unified company, one village, working together to create something bigger than themselves. In that space, students learn far more than lines and choreography. They learn how to support one another, how to rise to a challenge, how to use their voices, and how to stand proudly in who they are.

Theatre asks our children to be brave. To take risks. To think deeply. To work as a team. To navigate challenges in real time. And in doing so, it builds not only artists, but strong, capable, empathetic human beings.

What we witnessed on that stage was not just a performance—it was growth, connection, and transformation.

To our families, alumni mentors, and volunteers—thank you. It truly takes a village to bring a production of this scale to life, and we are so grateful for the time, energy, and love you poured into this experience.

📸 Check out our full Shrek JR. production photo gallery here:
SHREK PHOTO GALLERY!

Take a moment to relive the magic, the laughter, and every layered (yes… very layered!) moment from our time in Duloc and beyond.

🎥 I’ll be back in touch once our videographer completes the editing from the recordings of our performances (Sunday 1:00 PM, Sunday 7:00 PM, and Monday evening). These take time to carefully edit, and we typically receive them toward the end of May.

Until then, hold onto this big, bright, beautiful experience—and all the memories that came with it.

With so much pride and gratitude,
Kendrick

One Last Trip to the Swamp

 

To our dazzling ogres, loud and proud,

You’ve wowed the swamp and charmed the crowd.

Tomorrow brings our final show,

But don’t you worry—there’s more to go!

 

From muddy paths to Duloc’s gate,

You’ve made this journey truly great.

With every laugh and every roar,

You’ve given us so much and more!

 

So in tomorrow’s final scene,

Let’s shine like never yet been seen.

With Donkey’s jokes and Fiona’s grace,

Let’s bring the magic to this place!

 

So thank you, cast, for all you’ve done,

Tomorrow we finish—loud and fun!

With heart and humor, bold and true,

We’ll make one last swampy dream come through!

 

 

Tomorrow’s Schedule & Notes

Lower School cast members should arrive at 9:00 AM (enjoy the extra hour of sleep!). They will not report to classes until after the show.

 

Schedule
6:45 AM – Shrek arrival
6:45–7:00 AM – Cast & crew arrival
10:15 AM – Show (all)
After the show – Strike
Middle School students will remain for strike after the performance and will be dismissed at 5:30 PM.

 

 

Bravo and Reminders!

 

Dear Ogres, Donkeys, and Fairytale Friends,

 

Wow, what a wildly fun and unforgettable opening day! KP and I are still smiling after watching this incredible cast and crew bring Shrek to life. You filled our stage with heart, humor, and just the right amount of ogre-sized personality, all while entertaining nearly 1200 guests.

From the swamp to Duloc and everywhere in between, our school was absolutely buzzing from start to finish. The energy, commitment, and joy you brought to both performances were nothing short of magical. Truly, this cast is a big, bright, beautiful world of talent. We could not be prouder of all of you. Bravo!

 

What time does school start on Monday?

Carpool doors will open at the usual time, and the school day will begin as scheduled. We recognize that many of our students may be feeling the effects of a long and exciting day. We trust each family to make the decision that best supports their child’s well-being, and we will fully support whatever choice you make.

 

Call Times for Monday
3:00 Middle School Call Time. The bus will bring you to the Lower School.
5:15 3rd through 5th Grade Call Time
5:45 Mechina through 2nd Grade Call Time
The show will wrap up around 8:00.

 

Tuesday Call and Show Information
Lower School Cast Members may arrive at 9:00, allowing for an extra hour of rest. Students should report directly to the show and will join their classes afterward.
Middle School Cast members will remain with us following the performance for strike duty and will be dismissed at 5:30.

 

Show Shirts
Cast members may wear their Shrek show shirts in place of or over their Davis polos through Tuesday.

Thank you for bringing such joy, laughter, and heart to our stage. You reminded all of us that sometimes the most unexpected heroes can create something truly special.

 

See you tomorrow,
KP and Drew

REMINDER ABOUT TECHNOLOGY FOR TOMORROW!

MECHINA – 5TH GRADE

🚫 TECHNOLOGY-FREE ZONE

Please do NOT send your child with:

• iPads
• Apple Watches
• Phones
• Any personal devices

🎬 6TH – 8TH GRADE

📱 Phones are allowed for:

• Drop-off
• Between shows
• Pick-up

🔒 During rehearsals & performances:
All phones will be collected and secured in the cell phone locker

Thank you!!

Help Us Celebrate the Heart Behind Shrek Jr: Last Call to Show Support for our Director's Gift and Staff-Volunteers-Production Team- thank you!

 

Dear Shrek JR. Families,

As we prepare for what promises to be a truly magical production, I’m reaching out to ask a final time for you to show your support,if you have not yet, in recognizing the extraordinary efforts of our Director, Kendrick Phillips, and the incredible team of staff and volunteers who have poured their hearts into making this show such a special experience for our children.

Each year, Ms. Kendrick goes above and beyond during rehearsals and early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays, bringing Broadway-level vision and heart to our school’s stage. From choreographing and staging to set, prop, and costume design, music direction, tech planning, vendor coordination, and countless hours of behind-the-scenes logistics, Kendrick’s passion and dedication are the backbone of our production.

Of course, she is not alone. An amazing group of faculty and parent volunteers has also given their time and talents selflessly to support this enormous production. For those new to this program, you’ll be amazed to see over 150 children, ages 5–14, come together to create something truly unforgettable.

We would love your help in showing our gratitude. Please consider donating—any amount per child in the cast or crew—toward a special Director’s gift and thank-you tokens for the team that brings this vision to life and makes our children shine.

You can Venmo your contribution to @tmand, or email me at tamaramand@gmail.com if you prefer to give another way.

Thank you so much for helping us celebrate the people who make the magic happen. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Warmly,

Tamara Mand

SUNDAY INFORMATION- Reminders and in Review! BREAK A LEG!

 

A FEW REMINDERS-Please read in full! Thank you!

ROOM MONITORS & VOLUNTEER INFO

🚗 Parking:

Volunteer Parking: Near the playground

Sponsor Parking: North side of the building near the gym

ADA Spots: Directly in front of the gym

• Please do not park on the north side unless you are a sponsor or need ADA access.

🏫 Dressing Room Assignments by Grade

Grade Level	Room #	Room Name
Mechina & Kindergarten	Room 217	Young Art Room (Lentz)
1st & 2nd Grade	Room 215	Older Art Room (Ganz)
3rd Grade and 4/5 non -AE	Room 235	Music Room (Gimpelevich)
4th & 5th Grade	Room 237	Keyboard Room (Michek)
Middle School Boys/4&5 Boys	Room 137	A/V Recording Studio
Middle School Girls	Room 135	Innovation Studio (Tinch)

Merch & Fan-O-Grams: Media Center

Concessions: Dining Hall

💡 Volunteer Reminders:

After check-in, go directly to your assigned room.

• Cue sheets will be in each room for transitions.
• Livestreams (M–5), snacks, and Lookbooks provided.
• Room volunteers will dismiss cast members post-show.
• Please help tidy rooms before leaving.

WHAT TO BRING TO THE SHOWROOM & DRESSING ROOMS

To help our cast stay engaged and ready for their scenes, we will have a live stream of the performance available in each dressing room. This will allow all cast members to enjoy the show while also keeping track of their cues and entrances.

• M-2 actors: Recognizing downtime between their scenes, students are welcome to bring coloring activities or a small personal activity to help them remain calm while waiting for their big moments. NO TECHNOLOGY, PLEASE! 
• 3rd-5th-grade actors: Since these students are in more of the show, additional activities are not as necessary.
• All students should bring a water bottle (water only; no other drinks or hot beverages).
• Snacks will be provided during the show. Please do not send in your own snacks, as we have carefully selected costume-friendly, non-residue options.

COSTUME & DRESS CODE REMINDERS FOR SUNDAY, MONDAY & TUESDAY

• Mechina – 3rd -grade students:
•  For each show, please arrive in full costume, makeup, and hair. Since students will be coming and going in costume, you may want to bring an oversized shirt to wear over their costume if they go out for a meal between shows. Please be mindful of what your child eats in costume if you go out for a meal between shows.
• 4th - 8th-grade students: 
• Arrive in undergarments and street clothes—costumes will be worn at the venue.
• Ensure you have appropriate undergarments to be comfortable in your changing room.
• It is recommended that jazz shoes stay in the dressing room to prevent scuffing or damage outside.
• LS CAST- please wear underwear even if you are wearing swim shorts.
• ALL 3rd-8th-grade cast, please remember to practice good hygiene and wear deodorant.
• We noticed several pairs of incorrect shoes today. Please CLICK HERE to see what is needed- thanks!
• Please feel free to send along extra nut-free, dry snacks if your child would like them.  NO LIQUIDS OR "WET" snacks, please!
• ALL ACCESSORIES TO M-5 customers STAY at school for all shows. We will put them on you at school. You should arrive in your base costume/socks/leggings. 
• Please arrive on time- we have a short window to run through bows and warm up each grade before the house opens for each show.
• LINKS BELOW FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION & REMINDERS 
• Hair and Make-Up Information for LOWER SCHOOL Cast Members  
• Hair and Make-Up Information for MIDDLE SCHOOL CAST/CREW MEMBERS

• MIDDLE SCHOOL CREW, PLEASE REMEMBER TO WEAR YOUR SHREK SHIRT, BLACK PANTS, AND YOUR APPROVED SHOES! 

REMINDER FOR PARENT VOLUNTEERS

To maintain focus and respect the rehearsal and performance process, we kindly ask that parent volunteers refrain from taking photos or videos during scenes and practices. In addition to fostering a professional and immersive experience for our young performers, this policy ensures we remain fully compliant with our licensing agreement for SHREK Jr.

• Please feel free to send along extra nut-free, dry snacks if your child would like them. 
• Room monitors, please only bring water into the dressing rooms. No coffee, tea, or colas (dark or colored) or colored drinks.  
• Please use your checklist to ensure your participant wears all the pieces of their costume before you arrive at each show.
• Please arrive on time- we have a short window to run through bows and warm up each grade before the house opens for each show.
• ALL LOWER SCHOOL CAST SHOULD ARRIVE IN HAIR, MAKE-UP, & COSTUMES. 
• LINKS BELOW FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION & REMINDERS 

MIDDLE SCHOOL CAST REMINDERS

Before arriving:

• Apply skin-tone foundation at home
• Wear compression undergarments
• Girls wearing wigs: hair in pin curls or braids
• Bring show shoes
• No jewelry or wearable tech
• Wear deodorant, bring a large water bottle

💄 Questions about hair or makeup?

Contact Ms. Kendrick at kphillips@davisacademy.org

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✅ REMINDER: CHECK PAST BLOG POSTS!

Please refer to earlier blog posts for important information on:

• Hygiene expectations
• Undergarment guidelines
• Shoes and costume footwear
• Makeup and hair prep
  These details are essential for a smooth and professional performance experience.

🟢 SUNDAY ARRIVAL & TECHNOLOGY POLICY 🐸👑

🚪 ARRIVAL

• Please report to and enter through the MAIN LOBBY for all Sunday call times.

🎭 MECHINA – 5TH GRADE

🚫 TECHNOLOGY-FREE ZONE

Please do NOT send your child with:

• iPads
• Apple Watches
• Phones
• Any personal devices

🎬 6TH – 8TH GRADE

📱 Phones are allowed for:

• Drop-off
• Between shows
• Pick-up

🔒 During rehearsals & performances:
All phones will be collected and secured in the cell phone locker

 SHREK JR. 

🐸👑MASTER CALL TIME SCHEDULE 🐸👑

🌞 LOWER SCHOOL CALL TIMES (M–5)

🟩 SUNDAY – 1:00 PM SHOW

CALL TIME	GROUP
11:45 AM	3rd – 5th
12:15 PM	M – 2nd
1:00 PM SHOW (Ends ~2:45 PM)	ALL LS

🟣 Baby Ogre & Grumpy
→ 10:00 AM arrival (mic, makeup, costume, hat/ears)

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🟩 SUNDAY – 7:00 PM SHOW

CALL TIME	GROUP
5:45 PM	3rd – 5th
6:15 PM	M – 2nd
7:00 PM SHOW (Ends ~8:45 PM)	ALL LS

🟣 Baby Ogre & Grumpy
→ 4:45 PM arrival (mic, makeup, costume, hat/ears)

• Grumpys, please wear nude dance shorts/compression undergarments to hold your mic in place! 

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🟩 MONDAY – 6:30 PM

CALL TIME	GROUP
5:15 PM	3rd – 5th
5:45 PM	M – 2nd
6:30 PM SHOW (Ends ~7:45–8:00 PM)	ALL LS

🟣 Baby Ogre & Grumpy
→ 4:30 PM arrival (mic, makeup, costume, hat/ears)

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🟩 TUESDAY – ALL SCHOOL SHOW

CALL TIME	GROUP
By 9:00 AM	ALL LS
Report directly to show (no homeroom)	Lower School Cast
Join classes after the performance	Lower School Cast

🟣 Baby Ogre & Grumpy
→ 8:30 AM arrival (mic, makeup, costume, hat/ears)

🎭 ADVANCED ENSEMBLE – WIGGING CALL TIMES

SHOW	ARRIVAL WINDOW
Sunday 1:00 PM	11:30–11:45 AM
Sunday 7:00 PM	5:30–5:45 PM
Monday Night	4:45–5:00 PM
Tuesday Show	8:45–9:00 AM

⚠️ PLEASE ARRIVE NO LATER THAN YOUR CALL TIME
Wigging takes time—being on time is essential.

🌙 MIDDLE SCHOOL CALL TIMES (CAST & CREW)

🟪 SUNDAY – 1:00 PM SHOW

TIME	DETAILS
8:15 AM	Shrek (Makeup)
9:00 AM	Donkey (Makeup)
9:15 AM	All Cast & Crew Call
9:15 AM	Dragons – Headpiece Fitting
9:15 AM	Fionas – Fully ready
10:00 AM	Fight Call (Shrek / Donkey / Dragon)
12:00 PM	Bows + Confetti
12:30 PM	House Opens
1:00 PM SHOW	ALL

🟪 SUNDAY – 7:00 PM SHOW

TIME	DETAILS
3:45 PM	Shrek Call
4:30 PM	All Cast & Crew
4:30–6:00 PM	Fight Call, Dragon Fit, Fiona Run
6:30 PM	House Opens
7:00 PM SHOW	ALL

🟪 SUNDAY – BETWEEN SHOWS

CATEGORY	DETAILS
Stay	May remain on campus
Food	Bring or have dropped off
Patio	Open for fresh air
Phones	Returned during break
Leaving	Return BEFORE call

🟪 MONDAY – 6:30 PM SHOW

TIME	DETAILS
2:00 PM	Shrek Call
2:25 PM	All Cast & Crew report
6:00 PM	Doors Open
6:30 PM SHOW	ALL

🟪 TUESDAY – ALL SCHOOL SHOW

TIME	DETAILS
6:45 AM	Shrek Arrival
6:45–7:00 AM	Cast & Crew Arrival
10:15 AM SHOW	ALL
After Show	Strike
5:30 PM	Dismissal

⚠️ IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Early arrival welcome
• Strike is mandatory (unless game/meet—communicate)
• Reset costumes, props, and spaces after each show

📦 STRIKE! Every cast & crew member is required to stay after the show for strike unless excused due to a Davis spring sports game. Strike will end by 5:30 PM.

📌 Middle School students may stay between Sunday shows or leave and return for the second call time. If staying, bring food/snacks. If leaving, eat before coming back.

🚫 Please note: Food delivery services (Uber Eats, DoorDash, etc.) are not permitted. Thank you for helping us keep the building secure and organized!

Please also do not eat in costume — all meals should be enjoyed before or after costume changes.

CONCESSIONS, MERCHANDISE & FAN-O-GRAMS

We’re excited to offer concessions, Shrek-themed merchandise, and fan-o-grams before each show and during intermission!

💳 Cash and card accepted.

Please note: credit card purchases include a $0.50 convenience fee.

Thank you for your partnership and support in helping everything run smoothly and beautifully for our entire company. WE LOVE OUR SHREK VILLAGE! 

Break a leg and let your light shine on stage! 

Ms. Kendrick 

P.S. Please check back tomorrow for another blog update!