Avenue J Studios Youth Theater to present 'Shrek, the Musical'

Avenue J Studios in North Aurora proudly presents "Shrek, the Musical" on Aug. 7-9 at West Aurora High School. The cast is comprised of 32 talented youth, ages 9 to 19 representing local communities in the far west suburbs.

"Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek …" begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking donkey and a feisty princess. When a short-tempered bad guy steps in, Shrek finds himself on the road to becoming a real hero. This story celebrates acceptance, empathy, and being true to oneself through lively music, fabulous dancing, and well-placed comedy.

Tickets are available for shows at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9.

Tickets can be purchased online for $10 until 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, at www.avenuejstudios.org/shrek-tickets.html. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door for $12 each.

Avenue J Studios is a nonprofit performing arts studio in West Aurora. The focus of Avenue J is to build self-esteem and confidence in every student while promoting social responsibility and awareness. The Avenue J family is proud to include many youth who are on the autism spectrum, who have learning disabilities, and who struggle with socio-emotional issues. The studio aspires to teach young people to make a difference through empathy, kindness, acceptance, and compassion.

Avenue J offers classes in performing arts education for ages 3 to 18. A variety of classes are offered on a quarterly basis in acting, voice, and dance. For information, visit www.avenuejstudios.org or call the studio at (630) 518-9099.