Shrek

Based on the Dreamworks animation film of 2001, the musical version remained an entertaining fairy tale in which curses are reversed, monsters get the girls, donkeys and dragons find love, and princesses are beautiful in all shapes and sizes. As the grumpy gruff green ogre, Darren Tasker provided a first-class performance taking centre stage in the highly demanding role of Shrek, partnered with Grant-Scott Johnson skilfully bringing great characterisation with some wonderful one-liners as his faithful Donkey in their journey from Shrek’s swamp to rescue Princess Fiona from the fire-breathing dragon. Anne Rice provided a strong performance in her portrayal of Princess Fiona as did Victoria Hamilton as the evil Dragon. Ray O’Sullivan brilliantly portrayed the vertically challenged Lord Farquaad slightly camp and who spent his entire performance on his knees - with this own legs hidden from view, but his high-kicking dance routine with the aid of prop legs in yellow tights provided great amusement! In the performance I attended, I was impressed with the vocals from the younger cast which included Georgie Brown (Young Fiona), Alba Williamson (Teen Fiona) and Callan Wilson (Young Skrek) with Abigail Brown, Lily Tracey and Fraser Majoribanks playing alternate performances which I understand were equally matched. It must be said that all principals brought drama and humour to their roles, displaying strong singing voices as did the Villagers, Fairytale Characters and the citizens of Duloc. There were many magical moments throughout this production and from dancing Rats, toe-tapping Blind Mice to Fairy Tale Characters, it was evident all on stage were having a ball! Although the musical numbers are not well known, as in the film, the musical ends with ‘I'm a Believer’ made famous by the vocal group ‘The Monkees’ in 1966, which involved the entire cast and sent the audience out on a high-note. Despite the challenges of securing a venue for this show due to the closure of the Town Hall, St Mungo’s High School provided a suitable venue for what was a highly successful and entertaining production and one I am sure all in the company coupled with the production team will be please with.

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