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Shrek The Musical

Jude Cartalaba

<div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:750px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1760148366110Dexter Santos.jpeg" style="width:750px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Dexter Santos</span></span></span></div><p>MANILA -- More than 10 years since its last Manila run, “Shrek The Musical” is back — this time on a grander scale at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, under the direction of Dexter Santos.</p><p>The Full House Theater production revives the classic story with renewed energy and heart, celebrating the beauty of being different through humor, music, and a swamp full of unlikely heroes.</p><p>Featuring music by Jeanine Tesori and book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire, the musical follows the story of Shrek, an ogre determined to reclaim his swamp after it becomes overrun by a band of fairytale creatures seeking refuge. Banished from the Kingdom of Duloc by the tyrannical Lord Farquaad for being “freaks,” the creatures now find themselves exiled under threat of death should they ever attempt to return.</p><p>Santos is no longer a stranger to directing musicals with Newport World Resorts&#x27; home theater company. In an exclusive one-on-one interview, the director shared his thoughts about the upcoming musical extravaganza after Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group staged it back in 2014.</p><p>&quot;I’m incredibly excited about the collaboration happening across the board— from the creatives, cast, tech team, production, to the backstage crew. It’s always a joy to work on a musical that speaks to audiences of all ages,” Santos said.</p><p>&quot;Mounting a production on the massive NPAT stage is no easy feat, but with everyone’s expertise, heart, and generosity, I truly hope we can create something special with this version of ‘Shrek The Musical.’”</p><p>Part of his motivation in accepting this project is his intention of creating a show that would appeal to the younger audiences. “When ‘Shrek’ first came out, it stood out because its characters didn’t fit the traditional fairytale mold — no Prince Charmings or perfect ingenues. These are characters who, in many ways, are &#x27;outsiders,’”  he noted.</p><p>“’Shrek The Musical’ celebrates the idea that it’s okay to be different — that everyone is unique and special in their ways. Beyond the fun and humor, it teaches valuable lessons about self-confidence, acceptance, empathy, kindness, and inclusivity — not just for kids, but for audiences of all ages.&quot;</p><p>When asked how the production found its leads, Santos said he wasn’t sure of the exact number of auditionees, but emphasized that casting at Full House Theater Company is always a collaborative effort.</p><p>“With two of the country’s finest actors as co-artistic directors, their keen eye for casting is invaluable,” he said, referring to Full House Theater Company’s Michael Williams and Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo.</p><p>“Krystal Kane, Jamie Wilson, Topper Fabregas, and Bibo Reyes are all seasoned performers, and I’m genuinely excited to see how they bring these iconic characters to life. Their performances promise to be honest yet entertaining — heartfelt, but full of fun.”</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:750px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17601484437100-1.jpg" style="width:750px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">The cast of &#x27;Shrek The Musical&#x27; led by Jamie Wilson in the title role. <em>Handout</em></span></span></span>Aside from being a theater director, Santos teaches at the University of the Philippines in Diliman and part of his mission is to extend his work beyond the classroom and connect with communities and audiences outside the university.</div><p>&quot;I’m grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with various theater companies and artists. These experiences not only deepen my work as a director but also allow me to bring valuable industry insights back into the classroom. This helps keep my students grounded in current practices and trends. I’d love to direct for Dulaang UP again someday — perhaps even a reunion production that brings together current students and DUP alumni,” he said.</p><p>Santos, who is also known for his work as a movement director, was asked which choreography in Shrek will be particularly fun or recognizable for children.</p><p>“My last major choreographic work was ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo: The Musical’ in 2020, which I did in collaboration with my former students — many of whom are now accomplished choreographers,” he shared.</p><p>“Since then, I’ve happily passed the baton. From ‘AHEB’ 2023 to ‘Buruguduystunstugudunstuy’ to ‘Delia D.’, Stephen Viñas and his choreography team have continued to amaze me,” he added.</p><p>“Their work keeps evolving and impressing. Stephen knows me so well—just a small note from me, and he immediately understands how to elevate a piece, blending his distinct style and expertise with what the show needs. I’m truly excited about what they’ll create for ‘Shrek The Musical.’”</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:750px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1760148742791512945292_10164184173471015_1530232133208256501_n.jpg" style="width:750px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Dexter Santos at work. <em>Dexter Santos/Facebook</em></span></span></span>Like his mentor Anton Juan, who always reminded him to “carry our mentors on our backs,” Santos said he tries to live by that lesson every day.</div><p>“I hope I can continue sharing what I’ve learned — both as an academic and as a practitioner,” he said. “I constantly remind my students: stay humble, never assume you know everything, always be prepared, do your homework, and let your work speak for itself.”</p><p>Reflecting on his body of work, Santos said every production he has directed holds a special place in his heart, teaching him lessons not only in creativity but in life.</p><p>“I cherish them all and am deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of those journeys,” he said.</p><p>Asked to name three productions that were particularly meaningful, he cited “Orosman at Zafira,” his first play with Dulaang UP, which ran four times; “Ang Huling El Bimbo: The Musical,” notable for its deep impact on Filipino audiences during the pandemic and also running four times; and “Grace,” his last collaboration with Sir Floy Quintos, which had three runs.</p><p>“These productions are close to me not just for their success, but for the personal, cultural, and emotional resonance they held,” Santos added.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:880px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1760148563694506098928_10164113181356015_272425657489395937_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Dexter Santos with the late Floy Quintos. <em>Dexter Santos/Facebook</em></span></span></span></div><p>As he continues to achieve and pay it forward, Santos expressed his admiration for the next generation of theater artists.</p><p>“Theater is very much alive — and thriving. I’m inspired every day by the amazing talents around me — from senior legends and institutions to my peers, seasoned professionals, and up-and-coming artists, including student directors,” he said.</p><p>He added, “I want to highlight a few younger artists — not necessarily new, but ones I’m incredibly excited about. (Sana walang magselos!) These directors, composers, choreographers, and playwrights are creating bold, beautiful work: Guelan Luarca, Pat Valera, Mikko Angeles, Nelsito Gomez, Ian Segarra, Delphine Buencamino, Krina Cayabyab, Myke Salomon, Ejay Yatco, JM Cabling, and Stephen Viñas.</p><p>&quot;I can’t wait to see what they do next.&quot;</p><div><br/></div><div><em>“Shrek The Musical” opens on October 31 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Newport World Resorts.</em></div>

<p>More than 10 years since its last Manila run, “Shrek The Musical” is back — this time on a grander scale at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, under the direction of Dexter Santos. </p>

More than 10 years since its last Manila run, “Shrek The Musical” is back — this time on a grander scale at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, under the direction of Dexter Santos.

‘Shrek The Musical’ returns under Dexter Santos’ direction

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‘Shrek The Musical’ returns under Dexter Santos’ direction

Jude Cartalaba

Published Oct 11, 2025 10:29 AM PHT

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Shrek The Musical

Dexter Santos

Newport World Resorts

Full House Theater Company

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