by K.C. Rutiaga

Children’s Musical Theaterworks has always been more than a youth theater company—it has become a place where hundreds of young people across the Central Valley find friendship, confidence, and a creative home. As CMT rounds out its celebratory 25th anniversary season at the Fresno Memorial Auditorium with Shrek the Musical, the company also looks ahead with the intent to lean even more intentionally into its mission: to create a welcoming space where every performer, staff member, volunteer, and audience member belongs. That spirit of inclusion and joy makes this year’s holiday production especially meaningful.

With Shrek, CMT is inviting patrons into a story that feels especially close to its heart. Shrek the Musical isn’t just a fairy-tale adventure filled with big laughs and larger-than-life characters—it’s a celebration of accepting yourself exactly as you are, something CMT strives to instill in every young performer who walks through its doors.

In a company built on nurturing confidence, creativity, and community, Shrek’s journey resonates deeply. The production features a vibrant cast of local youth and adults, many CMT alumni, who bring both humor and honesty to a story about an unlikely hero, a donkey who never stops talking, and a princess who’s more than she seems. Their performances highlight themes CMT champions year-round: that everyone deserves a place to shine, that differences make us stronger, and that sometimes the most unexpected people create the most beautiful stories together.

Directed by Brittney Martorana, with colorful (and very swampy) sets designed by Randy Kohlruss (who also happens to be Shrek himself), bold musical numbers with vocal direction by Shannah Estep, guest choreography by Josh Montgomery, costumes by Nikki Rhodes, and intricate hair and makeup by Emma Raymond (one of two talented Fiona’s), this show brings all the quirky charm audiences love from the DreamWorks film—but with a little extra silliness.

Like most of CMT’s holiday shows, Shrek offers families a joyful and meaningful way to kick off the season. CMT productions are more than shows—they’re a reminder that belonging and creativity go hand in hand. Shrek carries that message forward with heart.

To further celebrate the season, CMT will also present a special one-night Holiday Cabaret in its Black Box at Sierra Vista Mall on December 11, featuring festive performances by many of the Shrek cast members.

As the year concludes, CMT is preparing a series of anniversary celebrations designed to honor its legacy and support its future. Among these is the Holiday Home Tour. Executive Director Judy Stene has opened her beautifully decorated home—featured as part of the Fresno High Home Tour—for an evening of festive inspiration. Guests can enjoy holiday décor and warm seasonal treats while supporting the organization’s programming. Proceeds directly benefit CMT’s educational program, full-scale productions, and year-round classes, all of which have become an anchor in Fresno’s arts scene.

CMT is also launching its latest fundraiser, Give and Receive, a campaign dedicated to strengthening the company’s ability to provide accessible arts education and performance opportunities. With rising production costs, expanded class offerings, and increasing need for financial support, the organization relies on community generosity now more than ever. Supporters can donate online at
tickets.cmtworks.com/DonationAddToBasket.asp?camp=5
and will receive a special 25th anniversary gift in recognition of their contribution.

These additional holiday and anniversary celebrations complement the message at the core of Shrek the Musical: that everyone deserves a place to belong. Whether audiences are stepping into the swamp for an evening of laughter or strolling through beautifully decorated homes during the Holiday Home Tour, CMT hopes the community feels the warmth and welcome that define its work.

For tickets and information on Shrek, the Holiday Cabaret, and other holiday events, visit tickets.cmtworks.com/.

If you love local theatre, be sure to check out Mysteryrat’s Maze Podcast, which features mysteries read by local actors. You can find the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, and also on podbean.

Check out more theatre reviews & other local entertainment articles in our Arts & Entertainment section. You can also find more theatre coming up on KRL’s Local Theatre event page.