When Shrek the Musical stomps onto the Avalon Theatre stage this month, it arrives with the kind of joyful chaos only an Avalon holiday production can pull off. Behind the green makeup and fairy-tale mayhem are actors Will Chapman (Shrek) and Zachary Bosman (Donkey), who sat down with the Spy a few days ago to talk about why this famously lopsided hero’s journey still hits home.
In our chat, Will admits he came to Shrek later in life, discovering only as an adult how deeply the film had imprinted itself on younger generations. Zachary, meanwhile, grew up looping the movies until his family begged for a break, carrying that childhood affection straight into his performance. Together, they lean into the story’s big message: you’re strongest when you stop trying to be anyone but yourself.
Chapman and Bosman say that, despite the controlled chaos, the cast has bonded around the show’s message of acceptance and humor — turning the Avalon into the happiest swamp in Easton.
This video is approximately three minutes in length.
Shrek the Musical
Avalon Theatre — 40 E. Dover Street, Easton, Maryland
Dates: December 11–21, 2025 (7:00 PM evenings; 2:00 PM selected matinees)
Tickets: Starting at $25 (Tier 3) to $40 (Tier 1)
Buy Online: avalonfoundation.org
Box Office: 410-822-7299
Email: [email protected]
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