Shrek
Information
- Date
- 1st February 2023
- Society
- Colchester Operatic Society
- Venue
- The Mercury Theatre Colchester
- Type of Production
- Musical
- Director
- Adam Woodhouse
- Musical Director
- Neil Somerville
- Choreographer
- Adam Woodhouse
- Assistant Director
- Laura Hicks
- Stage Manager
- Terry Lyon
I was warmly welcomed at Front of House by Musical Director, Neil Somerville and Committee member Andrew Hodgson.
The production opened with a rousing song “Big Bright Beautiful World”, an attractive forest scene and young Shrek, a green ogre, being sent away by his parents to make his way in life. Young Shrek, played by Joshua Miles, eventually found a home in a swamp where he could hide away and grow to an adult. Thomas Pleasant, as adult Shrek was very well cast and was pivotal throughout. Well hidden behind masks, prosthetics and accomplished makeup he delivered a near perfect performance. However, the Fairytale creatures had been banished to the swamp by the evil Lord Farquaad so Shrek travels to the kingdom of Duloc to reclaim his swamp. He soon meets the Donkey, played by Emma Theedom, who never stopped talking and cracking jokes. Emma’s facial expressions and contortions were amazing and contributed greatly to the comedy throughout. There was a great scene involving puppeteers as a backdrop to the “Travel Song”
Wayne Setford, as Lord Farquaad played this role entirely on his knees, striding around the stage with great presence and skill and injecting comedy into his actions.
Inevitably Shrek meets his true love ie Princess Fiona, beautifully played by Charlotte Reed along with Esme Ball (Teen Fiona) and Olivia Baker (Young Fiona). A tender song, “I Know It’s Today” ably showcased the voices of all three.
Rory Dunbar, as King Harold and Nikki McCarron as Queen Lillian were well partnered and convincing in their roles. Kate Cavill had a lovely role as Gingy working well with her puppeteer, Katie Cutmore. I must mention the fabulous dragon with it’s puppeteers and dragon girls. Well done-it was so convincing !
The Fairytale creatures were all fantastic with perfect costumes and makeup. The audience responded especially well to Kirstie Heathcote, as Pinocchio with an ever growing nose.
There was a very large cast of Fairytale Creatures, Happy Mob, Guards, Knights and Duloc Performers with a number of the cast taking more than one role. Without exception all played their respective roles with huge energy, enthusiasm and talent.
Impeccable dancers, Rat Tappers and Fosse Dancers performed many intricate routines with great skill and precision. I particularly enjoyed the Rat Tappers who were so well rehearsed. Congratulations to Director/Choreographer, Adam Woodhouse for designing the many innovative routines
The finale of “I’m A Believer” drew a standing ovation from the audience.
The sets throughout were impressive and varied and created just the right atmosphere. The costumes were very attractive and colourful and well fitting. Lighting design (Peter Small) and sound design (Nico Menghini) were both well designed and brought added emphasis and dimensions to the sets.
Terry Lyon, as Stage Manager ensured that sets and props were moved seamlessly and quickly, aided by a competent crew.
Musical Director Neil Somerville ably directed the cast to the backing tracks used and, to his credit I think that most of the audience thought that there was a band in the pit so well rehearsed were the singers.
Many congratulation to Director, Adam Woodhouse for bringing this production to stage and for his innovation and skill in showcasing the great talent in this society.
This was a very polished and slick performance of which everyone involved in any way can be rightly proud.
I enjoyed this very much as did the appreciative audience.
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