CORPUS CHRISTI COLLEGE 2026 MUSICAL PRODUCTION
Book and Lyrics
Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia) Music by
Originally produced on Broadway by DreamWorks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions
“I’m a Believer” by Neil Diamond
“I’m a Believer” (Neil Diamond) (c) 1966 Stonebridge Music, Foray Music. All rights administered by Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC (SESAC), on behalf of Stonebridge Music, and by Foray Music (SESAC). All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Shrek The Musical Theatre for Young Audiences Version premiered at The Coterie, Kansas City, MO; Jeff Church Producing Artistic Director, Anthony Edwards Music Director.
Shrek the Musical brings to life the story of an unlikely hero whose quiet world is upended when a group of banished fairytale creatures are dumped in his swamp. Based on the Oscar‑winning DreamWorks film and the hit Broadway show, it invites audiences into a whimsical kingdom filled with humour, heart and larger‑than‑life personalities.
At the centre is Shrek, an ogre content with solitude until he’s pushed into an unexpected quest. To reclaim his land, he makes a deal with the power‑hungry Lord Farquaad: rescue Princess Fiona from a dragon‑guarded tower. Joined by the ever‑enthusiastic Donkey, Shrek begins to question what he believes about friendship, belonging and himself.
Princess Fiona, harbouring a nightly enchantment she longs to break, wrestles with the gap between the fairytale she imagined and the life she lives. Through mishaps, revelations and growing connection, Shrek, Fiona and Donkey each confront their vulnerabilities, finding the COURAGE to be truly seen.
Meanwhile, the exiled fairytale creatures refuse to hide any longer. Their spirited defiance becomes a bold act of COMMITMENT, standing together against Farquaad’s rules and reclaiming the right to live freely in a world that rejected them.
Ultimately, Shrek the Musical celebrates individuality, the courage to challenge expectations and the COMPASSION that transforms both relationships and communities. This modern tale reminds us that the most unexpected journeys often lead us exactly where we are meant to be.
This year’s production brings together students from Years 4 to 12 in a celebration of inclusivity creativity and community. Working across such a broad age range reflects our belief that the Performing Arts flourish when every voice is valued. Younger students are supported by older peers, while senior performers grow as mentors and together they form a company grounded in the Values of Courage Commitment and Compassion.
Over 92 students and more than 30 dedicated staff have poured their hearts into this production contributing upwards of 150 hours of rehearsal. Throughout this journey, students have embraced the richness of real‑world theatre, both onstage and backstage. They have learned the discipline of craft, the power of storytelling and the creativity that brings a world of characters, music, movement and imagination to life.
Productions of this scale also call on resilience. Students are challenged to persevere, take creative risks and learn from mistakes within a safe and supportive environment. In doing so, they build transferable skills, form enduring friendships and experience the joy of shared purpose. They come to understand that theatre is not just a place to perform, but a place to grow, to inspire and be inspired.
May this performance fill you with the same delight and wonder that has guided us through every rehearsal. May these memories shape our students long after the final bow.
Thank you for joining us. Enjoy the show.
Director
Creative Director
Producer
Stage Manager / Costume Designer
Choreography Director
Music Director
Music Assistants
Technical & Set Director
Sound Manager
Junior Co-ordinator
Marketing Manager
Graphic Design / Photography
Photography / Videography
Props Supervisors
Makeup Designer
Ciara Taylor
Jo Anne Palmer
Donna McCrystal
Melissa Kelly
Caroline Stevenson
Sam Graham
Chris Honey
Sarah Gaynor
Chris Hastie
Andrew Edge
Courtney Hill
Alexandra Carcione
Alexis Steyn
Brittney De Gouveia
Abrieanne Aviles &
Anna Harris
Taryn MacCallum
Leo Webb takes on the iconic role of Shrek, bringing humour, heart, and a bold physicality to the beloved green ogre. A familiar face in Corpus productions, Leo draws on his extensive performance background in Grease, Peter Pan, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Radium Girls to craft a Shrek who is both larger‑than‑life and deeply human. He revels in the challenge of transforming into the character from the fat suit, to the green paint and embraces the joy of working closely with his fellow leads to bring the story to life.
Throughout the rehearsal process, Leo has been struck by the passion and commitment of the entire Cast and Crew, describing the atmosphere as overwhelmingly inspiring. One of his favourite memories so far is an unexpected laughing fit during a scene with Donkey, a moment that perfectly reflects the camaraderie of the company. Leo hopes his portrayal captures the humour and warmth at the heart of Shrek, inviting audiences to laugh, connect and celebrate the magic of being unapologetically yourself.
Samantha de Witt steps confidently into the role of Fiona, portraying a princess who is far from traditional. Bold, funny and wonderfully unconventional. Drawn to the production by her long time love of Shrek the Musical, she leapt at the chance to play a character she has admired for years. Samantha relishes exploring Fiona’s quirks and contradictions, finding the balance between her fiery humour and her vulnerable honesty. For her first Corpus musical, she has fully embraced the challenge of discovering who Fiona is and bringing her to life through song, story, and spirit.
The rehearsal room has surprised Samantha with its warmth and unity; the Cast and Crew have seamlessly clicked, forming a supportive community. A favourite memory involves the Dragon, whose oversized wings bring as much laughter as they do drama. Grateful for new friendships and the chance to perform in her final year, Samantha hopes her portrayal captures Fiona’s big heart and bigger personality and reminds audiences that happily ever after begins with embracing who you truly are.
Cohen Burgin brings explosive energy and charm to the role of Donkey, embracing the character’s wild humour and irresistible spontaneity. After discovering a love for performing during Radium Girls, Cohen returned to the stage eager to take on the challenge of his first musical. His natural enthusiasm, bold comedic instincts and genuine connection with the cast infuse his performance with warmth and electricity, creating a Donkey who is joyfully over the top, yet grounded in heart.
Cohen describes Shrek the Musical as “unapologetic,” celebrating individuality and silliness in the very best ways. One of his most memorable moments in rehearsal was a fake laughing scene with Leo that quickly turned into real, uncontrollable laughter, proof of the tight bond formed within the cast. For Cohen, the production has deepened friendships, sharpened performance skills and revealed the emotional layers beneath the comedy. He hopes audiences leave the theatre with full hearts, sore cheeks from laughing and a renewed appreciation for stories that embrace difference.
Marcus Aulfrey transforms into the uproarious Lord Farquaad, leaning fully into the character’s theatricality, wit and gleefully over the top villainy. A seasoned Corpus performer, Marcus brings experience from Peter Pan, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Radium Girls, channelling his love of comedy and physical theatre into a Farquaad who is both ridiculous and riotously entertaining. Learning to perform on his knees has been one of the role’s most unique challenges, but Marcus embraces it with humour and commitment, supported by an inviting cast that makes every rehearsal unforgettable.
What has struck Marcus most is the sheer creativity involved in bringing Shrek to the stage, from costume innovations to the clever ways the film’s world is reimagined theatrically. Rehearsals have been filled with laughter, especially when sharing jokes with castmates, moments he cherishes as part of the production’s tight community. To Marcus, Shrek is like an onion: layered with singing, dancing and heart, all wrapped in joyful absurdity. He hopes audiences leave the theatre laughing, cheering and of course becoming believers.
Sarah Carles brings power and presence to the role of Dragon, a character known for her commanding voice, fierce personality and unforgettable musical moments. With a rich performance history including Midsummer Night’s Dream, Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, Shakespeare’s Got Talent and Radium Girls. Sarah steps into her first musical determined to honour a character she adored long before joining the cast. She has dedicated herself to learning the vocal techniques needed to capture Dragon’s intensity, revelling in the challenge of crafting a performance that is both intimidating and soulful.
Rehearsals have revealed a surprising depth of teamwork, with collaboration between leads, ensemble, and junior cast members proving essential to shaping the show. A standout moment for Sarah was an unexpected voice crack during early rehearsals, an embarrassing but hilarious memory that bonded her with the cast. Through this production, she has widened her vocal range, strengthened her confidence and rediscovered the joy of performing. Sarah hopes her portrayal gives Dragon the bold, fiery spirit she deserves, reminding audiences that strength can be both fierce and heartfelt.
Alexandra makes her Corpus Christi College stage debut as Teen Fiona in Shrek the Musical. After watching previous College productions, she was inspired to audition and share her talent, especially excited to perform her own solo.
Alexandra has loved bringing Fiona’s quirky charm to life and has been amazed by the range of skills involved in a production, from vocals and dance, to tech, costumes, makeup and more.
Through the process, she has discovered the value of perseverance, gained confidence and formed new friendships across the Cast and Crew. She can’t wait to see every element come together on opening night.
Eva Fernando brings warmth, energy and a bright sense of hopefulness to the role of Young Fiona. She approaches every rehearsal with enthusiasm and curiosity, shaping a sincere and engaging portrayal of the character. Although this is her first school production, Eva has been dedicated to build her portrayal of Young Fiona.
Eva has enjoyed connecting with students across year levels and learning from older cast members and the creative team. She has loved seeing how choreography, music, staging and costumes all work together to bring the production together.
For Eva, Shrek the Musical has been a fun introduction to school productions and a chance to grow in confidence and creativity. She hopes audiences feel the happiness she experiences each time she steps into Young Fiona’s story.
*Eva will be performing on Thursday night and Saturday’s Matinee Show as Young Fiona.
Sofia Carcione brings sweetness, energy and a bright sense of curiosity to the role of Young Fiona, embracing the character’s love of adventure and belief in fairy‑tale endings. Although this is her first school production, she draws on her musical theatre, dance and solo singing experience outside of school to shape a warm and expressive performance.
Sofia has been amazed by the sense of community within the cast. She has especially enjoyed forming friendships across year levels and seeing how the backstage crew and cast combine to bring the story to life.
For Sofia, Shrek the Musical has been a wonderful opportunity to learn, grow and collaborate. She hopes audiences feel the same joy she does each time she steps into Young Fiona’s world.
*Sofia will be performing Friday night and Saturday nights Shows as Young Fiona.
Ethan Valerio returns to the Corpus Christi stage as Pinocchio, bringing sharp comedic timing and his distinctive high pitched character voice to the role. He is an experienced performer who has appeared in numerous productions both inside and outside the College, including Alice in Wonderland, The Tempest, Peter Pan, The Grimm Games, The Coup Capital, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Trackers, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Radium Girls.
Ethan’s love of musicals and the enjoyment he has found in past productions, inspired him to join Shrek the Musical. He has enjoyed exploring the humour of Pinocchio while also discovering how much rehearsal and detail goes into every role, no matter the size. He relates to Pinocchio’s moments of self doubt and the determination to keep going, a connection that has helped him grow in confidence throughout the process.
He is excited to see the show come together and contribute to another memorable performance in the College’s strong theatre legacy. Ethan hopes audiences will enjoy the great music, the talented cast and the vibrant comedy that makes this production such fun to perform.
Arlie Morris brings humour, confidence and a burst of personality to the role of Gingy. After previously performing as Curly in Peter Pan, she is excited to return to the Corpus Christi stage in a character that lets her be bold, expressive and delightfully dramatic. Arlie loves Gingy’s bravery and enjoys bringing Gingy’s spirited attitude to life.
Her passion for acting and the friendships she formed in past productions inspired her to join Shrek the Musical.
Throughout the rehearsal process she has enjoyed discovering the detail that goes into shaping even the smallest roles and has connected strongly with Gingy’s determination and positivity, qualities she sees in herself as well.
Arlie is looking forward to seeing the show come together and hopes audiences enjoy the comedy, colour and heart that make Shrek the Musical such a fun and uplifting production.
Students from Year 4 to Year 12 have taken on vital roles both on stage and behind the scenes, demonstrating remarkable commitment, creativity and collaboration. From delivering energetic and engaging performances under the lights, to contributing to costumes, props, makeup, sets and stage management, each student has played an essential role in bringing Shrek the Musical to life. Their willingness to learn new skills, support one another and step confidently into new challenges has been central to the success of the production.
With more than 100 hours of rehearsals, workshops and preparation, the Cast and Crew have grown into a close and collaborative production family. Throughout the process, students have developed confidence, resilience and a strong sense of responsibility, learning that every role contributes meaningfully to the overall performance. This production is a celebration of creativity and teamwork across year levels. The cast and crew are proud to share this magical and joyful story with our audiences, inviting them into the world of Far Far Away and the spirit of collaboration that made it possible.
Christian Blackburn
Peter Pan, Pied Piper & Ensemble
Juliet Burgin Ensemble & Guard
Anneliese De Luca Fairy Godmother & Dance Ensemble
Backstage Crew & Props Support
Sofie Gabriel Ensemble and Guard
Tory Gaglia
King Harold, Pig 1 & Dance Ensemble
Imogen Genoni Dance Ensemble
Angelina Gibson Ensemble & Guard
Isla Gannon Greeter, Duloc Announcer & Dance Ensemble
Kate Gowland Props Support
Imogen Macfarlane Costume Support
Violetta Mantilla Rodriguez Dance Ensemble
Georgia O’Brien Make up Support
Tiana Papineau Elf & Dance Ensemble
Jessica Mitchell Make up Support
Xavier Putt Captain of the Guards, Dwarf & Ensemble
Jeffrey Sackey Backstage Crew
Isabelle Saleh Ensemble
Harmony Salim Ensemble
Noah Santana Ensemble & Guard
Reina Santiago Humpty Dumpty, Blind Mice & Ensemble
Lacey Stocker Costume Support
Liam Tandy Props Support
Zerah Sebastion Captain of the Swamp & Ensemble
Ava Timson Props & Costume Support
Olivia Tsocas Backstage Leader & Props Support
Emily Wahyudi Knight 3 & Dance Ensemble
Maia Williums Director’s Assistant and Q Lab Operator
Nicole WhartonStreet Ugly Duckling & Dance Ensemble
Nicolas Willey White Rabbit & Ensemble
At Corpus Christi College, our College production’s are a true celebration of creativity, teamwork and community. This year’s production of Shrek the Musical brings together students from Years 4–12 showcasing the remarkable talent, dedication and passion of our young performers and crew.
From vocal coaching and choreography, to set building, costumes, makeup, lighting and backstage coordination, the production provides students with real world theatre experience.
Over many months of rehearsals, our Cast and Crew have demonstrated extraordinary commitment, forming friendships across year levels and contributing to a vibrant, supportive arts community.
Here, our students share highlights from their Shrek journey:
Anneliese De Luca
Fairy Godmother & Dance Ensemble, Year 12
In my final year, being involved in ‘Shrek’ feels especially meaningful. I truly admire the dedication behind each Corpus production and feel so proud to contribute to something that brings our school community together, especially as I am the Arts Prefect for 2026.
Tiana Papineau
Elf & Dance Ensemble, Year 10
Something that always surprises me is that no matter what kind of day I’ve had or how stressed, busy or tired I am, as soon as I walk into rehearsals I instantly feel more energised and happier because of the sense of positivity, anticipation and fun I get from rehearsals.
Big Bad Wolf & Ensemble, Year 10
Participating in ‘Shrek’ has helped me grow to be more social and confident around people. This production helped me to become confident in talking to new people and have people like me for who I really am.
Tech Crew, Year 9
I have enjoyed developing my tech skills and making new friends.
Claire Livingstone
Props Manager, Year 10
I have loved seeing big ideas and props come to life and working with new people.
Olivia Tsocas
Backstage Leader & Props Support, Year 10
I have enjoyed the welcoming energy backstage and the joy of bringing the show to life.
Kate Gowland
Props Crew, Year 8
The production has helped me with my creativity and confidence and I don’t feel embarrassed showing off my work for the props. There are a lot of people proud to show their work including myself and it’s been such an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Lacey Stocker
Costume Crew, Year 7
I have enjoyed being creative with styling outfits and working with the talented costume team.
Isabelle Saleh
Ensemble, Year 7
I have appreciated that this production has pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me gain confidence.
Joshua Lee
Donkey, Year 7
Through this production I have become more confident when singing and acting.
Nicolas Willey
White Rabbit & Ensemble, Year 9
Rehearsals are such a fun bonding experience especially with the choreography and singing. I like that I get to participate in many scenes even though I am not a lead by participating in the vocal booth and in small actions.
Bella Hillman
Knight & Dance Ensemble, Year 9
The production has helped me grow confidence in singing and made me more outgoing.
Performer and Dance Ensemble, Year 6
As I learn more about my character, I feel like I am uncovering more things about myself that I didn’t know before and I love that. I also have met so many other people through the production who I would not have normally met (all the Senior School!) and they are all amazing people. My confidence and love for performing is growing every rehearsal.
Amalia Klass
Acting Ensemble, Year 6
I really enjoy acting on stage in a group with friends and with the new people I have met. I love the co-operative acting and the satisfaction I get when we get the routines right. Everyone is so supportive!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our exceptional creative directing, music and choreography teams, dedicated Cast and Crew, staff, parents and families who have contributed to bringing Shrek the Musical to life. Your commitment, talent, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in shaping this production into something truly remarkable. From the meticulous planning and rehearsals to the captivating performances and seamless behind the scenes coordination, each individual has played a vital role in ensuring the success of this production. The passion, dedication, and collaborative spirit shown throughout this journey exemplify the values we hold dear at Corpus Christi College.
Jo Anne Palmer
Ciara Taylor
Melissa Kelly
Caroline Stevenson
Sam Graham
Donna McCrystal
Chris Hastie
Andrew Edge
Chris Honey
Sarah Gaynor
Abrienne Aviles
Taryn MacCallum
Anna Harris
Cheree Dobra
Corinna O’Leary
Kiara O’Leary
Courtney Hill
Alexandra Carcione
Alexis Steyn
Staff Thank You’s
Lisa Baltovich
Jennifer Batt
Trevor Bly
Sarah Connolly
Brigitte Delgado Pedraza
Amy Farr
Tyson Jones
Charles Pinkham
Katelyn Versluis
Grounds & Maintenance Team
Thank You’s
Delta Mirage Creations
Jordy Lee
Koorliny Arts Centre
Mirage Makeup Artistry
Sam Knox
Student Musicians
(pre show and intervals)
Lesley Aitken
Anne Marie De Luca
Lauren de San Miguel
Manelka Fernando
Shem Fernando
Wade Gowland
Rebecca Hillman
Scott Hillman
Melissa Livingstone
Leiahna O’Keeffe
Gerard O’Keeffe
Sandra Putt
Rebecca Timson
Sean Webb
Meikin Ashby
Amelie Braine
Audrey Budiono
Daniel Catucci
Violet Clarke
Zoe Cotton
Haydn Gibbens
Isaac Golding
Hayley Hillman
Amy Hitie
Sophie Lyon
Quinn Slater
Cody Ralston
Alexandra Carcione
Sarah Connelly
Dawn Davis
Mim De Santis
Ryan Gaynor
Jean Hein
Courtney Hill
Chris Honey
Chantel Jewell
Nadine Low
Luisa Rossi
Kathleen Webber
William Steig (1907–2003) was a highly respected cartoonist, illustrator and author whose imaginative work left a lasting mark on children’s literature. He is the creator of Shrek!, the book that later inspired the much loved DreamWorks films. Born in New York City into a family dedicated to the arts, Steig grew up in a creative environment that naturally encouraged him to pursue illustration and storytelling. He studied at City College and the National Academy of Design before beginning his professional career in 1930, when his drawings were first published in The New Yorker. His cartoons
quickly became a familiar and cherished feature of the magazine. Steig published his first children’s book, Roland the Minstrel Pig, in 1968. This launched a distinguished contribution to literature for young readers. He received the prestigious Caldecott Medal in 1970 for Sylvester and the Magic Pebble, and went on to write many acclaimed works, including Dominic, The Real Thief, The Amazing Bone, Amos and Boris, Abel’s Island and Doctor De Soto. His books received numerous honours in the United States and Europe. In recognition of his lifetime achievements, Steig was selected as the United States candidate for the Hans Christian Andersen Medal for Illustration in 1982 and for Writing in 1988. Alongside his children’s books, he produced thirteen collections of drawings for adults. He passed away in Boston at the age of 95.
Rob Ashford won the 2012 Olivier Award for his production of Anna Christie starring Jude Law and Ruth Wilson at London’s Donmar Warehouse. The production opened to rave reviews with The Independent’s anointing it as “picture perfect” and David Benedict stating that “the production’s hallmark is its boldness.” Rob most recently directed the Broadway revival of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof starring Scarlett Johansson, and Macbeth with Sir Kenneth Branagh at New York’s Park Avenue Armory and The Manchester International Festival. The Telegraph claimed “This is a Macbeth that won’t just go down as a highlight of the Manchester International Festival but as one of the Scottish Play’s great revivals,” and Ben Brantley of the New York Times proclaimed “Mr. Ashford uses his experience as a celebrated director of musicals to stunning, time bending effect.” Rob received his 8th Tony Nomination for his work on the Broadway revival of Evita starring Ricky Martin, and received the Tony Award for his work on the Broadway production of Thoroughly Modern Millie. Other Broadway credits include How to Succeed in Business (Tony Award Nominations for his direction and choreography), Promises, Promises (Tony Award Nomination), Shrek, John Water’s Cry Baby (Tony Award nomination, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, and Fred Astaire Awards), Curtains (Tony Award nomination), and Wedding Singer (Tony Award nomination). In London, Rob also directed the highly acclaimed Olivier Award winning revivals of A Streetcar Named Desire starring Rachel Weisz and Parade at The Donmar Warehouse. Rob did the choreography and staging for last year’s Academy Awards with Seth MacFarlane and won the 2009 Emmy Award for Best Choreography for his work on Baz Luhrmann’s production number (featuring Hugh Jackman and Beyoncé) at the 81st Annual Academy Awards. He has also choreographed the opening number for The Tony Awards starring Neil Patrick Harris for the past 4 years. He choreographed the feature film Beyond The Sea directed by and starring Academy Award winner Kevin Spacey and Walt Disney Production’s upcoming film Cinderella directed by Kenneth Branagh. Most recently, Rob directed and choreographed NBC’s The Sound of Music Live!, for which he received a DGA Award Nomination, and this January directed The Barber of Seville at Chicago Lyric Opera. Rob is an Associate Director at The Old Vic Theatre. He also serves on the Executive Board of The Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers and is a Trustee of The Joyce Theatre in New York City.
JASON MOORE (Director). Broadway: Avenue Q, Steel Magnolias. Carnegie Hall: Jerry Springer: The Opera. Off Broadway: Speech and Debate (Roundabout), Avenue Q (the Vineyard), Guardians (the Culture Project), The Crumple Zone. Associate directing: Les Misérables (Broadway, national tour), Ragtime (Vancouver). Writer: The Floatplane Notebooks (Charlotte Repertory Theatre). TV directing: episodes of Dawson s Creek, Everwood, One Tree Hill and Brothers and Sisters. Jason has a BS in performance studies from Northwestern University.
JEANINE TESORI won the Tony Award for Best Original Score with Lisa Kron for the musical Fun Home. She has also written Tony nominated scores for Twelfth Night at Lincoln Center; Thoroughly Modern Millie (lyrics, Dick Scanlan); Caroline, or Change (lyrics, Tony Kushner); and Shrek The Musical (lyrics, David Lindsay Abaire). The production of Caroline, or Change at the National Theatre in London received the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Her 1997 Off Broadway musical Violet (lyrics, Brian Crawley) opened on Broadway in 2014 and garnered four Tony nominations, including Best Musical
Revival. Opera: A Blizzard on Marblehead Neck (libretto, Tony Kushner; Glimmerglass) and The Lion, The Unicorn, and Me (libretto, J. D. McClatchy, Kennedy Center). Music for plays: Mother Courage (dir. George C. Wolfe, with Meryl Streep and Kevin Kline), John Guare’s A Free Man of Color (Lincoln Center Theater, dir. George C. Wolfe), and Romeo and Juliet (Delacorte Gala). Film scores: Nights in Rodanthe, Every Day, and You’re Not You. Ms. Tesori is a member of the Dramatists Guild and was cited by the ASCAP as the first female composer to have two new musicals running concurrently on Broadway. She was the founding artistic director of Encores! Off Center at New York City Center, and a lecturer in music at Yale University. Most of all, she is the proud parent of Siena Rafter.
DAVID LINDSAY ABAIRE is a Tony and Pulitzer Prize winning playwright, screenwriter, lyricist and librettist. His most recent show, the musical Kimberly Akimbo, written with composer Jeanine Tesori, premiered off Broadway at the Atlantic Theater Co., where it won the Lortel, NYDCC, OCC and Drama Desk Awards for Best Musical before it moved to Broadway and won five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Book and Best Score as well as a Grammy nomination for Best Musical Theater Album. His play Good People premiered on Broadway at MTC, was awarded the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Play, The Horton Foote Prize, The Edgerton Foundation New American Play Award, and two Tony nominations. His play Rabbit Hole also premiered on Broadway at MTC and received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, five Tony nominations, and the Spirit of America Award. David also wrote the book and lyrics for Shrek the Musical (Jeanine Tesori, composer), which was nominated for eight Tonys, four Oliviers, a Grammy, and earned David the Kleban Prize as America’s most promising musical theatre lyricist. His newest play, The Balusters, premiers on Broadway at MTC in April 2026, directed by Kenny Leon. David’s other plays include Ripcord, Fuddy Meers, Kimberly Akimbo and Wonder of the World which all premiered at MTC, as as well as A Devil Inside at Soho Rep. In addition to his work in theatre, David’s screen credits include his film adaptation of Rabbit Hole (starring Nicole Kidman, Oscar nomination), Dreamworks’ Rise of the Guardians, and The Family Fang, among others. He is also, along with Tanya Barfield, Co Director of the Lila Acheson Wallace American Playwrights Program at the Juilliard School.
