We just love the annual Zilker Summer Musical! Zilker Theatre Productions always presents an amazingly high-quality show for the Austin community — with FREE admission! It’s a blast to pack a picnic, spread out a blanket and chill with friends and family while watching a big, Broadway show under the stars.

This year, families are really in for some excitement as Shrek The Musical comes to the Zilker Hillside Theatre from July 8 through August 13 on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 8:15 p.m. (You can arrive as early as 6 p.m. to get a good spot.) Admission is free, and donations are very much appreciated.

The Zilker Summer Musical is always family-friendly, but ZTP takes a special delight presenting shows that specifically capture the hearts of children, like this year’s production. In fact, every Saturday at 7 p.m., members of the cast of Shrek will invite children come on stage for a Little Ogres Swamp Stomp. Fun!

Nominated for 8 Tony Awards and 12 Drama Desk Awards, Shrek The Musical brings the beloved characters from the popular animated films to life on stage. Irreverently fun for the whole family, Shrek proves that beauty is truly in the eye of the ogre.