01/20/2026
MEET THE CAST | MELANIE STANG (Moma Ogre, Moma Bear, and Others) is a Buffalo-based performer, director, educator, and creator whose work blends heart, humor, and community. A graduate of SUNY New Paltz’s Theatre Arts program, she has spent the past two decades performing across New York and the country, while also founding and leading MEL’s School of Music & Theatre (2018–2025). She has directed and produced over 30 youth productions and taught hundreds of students. Melanie is especially excited to appear in SHREK THE MUSICAL, a show she has had the joy of directing twice before. Favorite past roles include Richard Henry Lee in 1776 with O’Connell & Company and Belinda Sue in Donna Hoke’s ONCE IN MY LIFETIME: A BUFFALO FOOTBALL FANTASY at Lancaster Opera House. Thank you to her family for their support, especially her husband Ryan and three daughters, Rylie, DD & Shay!
O’Connell & Company presents SHREK THE MUSICAL, thru January 25 at the Shea’s Smith Theatre, proudly sponsored by Rustic Buffalo.
Based on the beloved DreamWorks animated film, Shrek the Musical is a laugh-out-loud, heartwarming adventure that flips fairy tales upside down. Featuring catchy songs, colorful characters, and a powerful message about friendship, love, and self-acceptance, this family-friendly production brings Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, and a swamp full of unforgettable fairy-tale misfits to vibrant life on stage. Perfect for audiences of all ages, it’s a fairy tale with a hilarious and heartfelt twist you won’t want to miss.
With book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori, the production is directed by Daniel Lendzian, with choreography by Joey Bucheker and Emily Weber, and musical direction by Rebecca Kroetsch.
Starring Nicholas Lama as Shrek, Audrianna Yates as Princess Fiona, Jake Hayes as Donkey, and Joey Bucheker as Lord Farquaad, alongside a talented ensemble cast.
Limited tickets are available for the remaining performances please call Shea’s box office at 716-847-0850 for full availability.