'Shrek' opens Friday; after yet another COVID-19 delay

The Chester High School production of "Shrek: the Musical" is finally expected to open this weekend, after being delayed one week due to COVID-19.

School was closed last week and the first two days of this week, making it impossible for the musical to open last Friday.

The new dates for performances are Friday-Monday, May 7-10 and Wednesday-Friday, May 12-14. The number of performances (7) remains the same, but the dates have been rearranged.

A 2 p.m. matinee will be held on Sunday, May 9; otherwise, the curtain opens at 7 p.m.

CHS Theater Director Brenda Coop, CHS Theatre Director, said it has been a trying year, "but we are really excited that the kids will finally get to put their show on the stage live."

With social-distancing and seating limitations, Juergens Gym at CHS will be limited to just 150 people per performance, half the usual capacity.

People who are holding tickets for canceled shows (including those canceled in 2020) are asked to reach Coop immediately to either swap them for upcoming performances, or let her know they won't be coming - so those seats can be used for someone else. Text her at (618) 443-8316) or email her at brendacoop@chester139.com.

Currently there are a very limited number of tickets available for the shows on May 9, 10, 12, 13 and 14. Shows on May 7 and 8 are sold out.

If capacity limits have not been met for any individual show, available seats will be sold at the door. Tickets are $8 adults and $5 students.