Shrek The Musical

Firstly, may I offer my congratulations to the Pendle Hippodrome Youth Theatre on its 30th anniversary.  It is fascinating to think how many young actors have over those years performed on the stage in Colne. Where are they all now? I am certain that many of them have continued their interest in all things theatrical and are now helping to nurture the young stars of the future. Such a person I can confidently say is Laura Schofield. Making her debut as Director and Musical Director Laura assembled, to use her own words, a “young and enthusiastic cast” backed up by “an amazing (backstage) team”.  Judging by the success she made of “Shrek The Musical” I have no doubt whatsoever that we can look forward to many more shows with Laura at the helm. 

The story of Shrek is well known and much loved. Such notoriety presents a special challenge to any director, for the fanatics are always quick to criticise anything that in their opinion fails to live up to the original or is to them “unauthentic”. Laura met this challenge face on recognising that you can still be creative while respecting the restrictions of the source material.

As the Storyteller Eden Barritt charmingly introduced us to the tale. She looked every inch a fairy princess. All the leads in this musical were excellent; able to create convincing characters we were able to relate to. Levi Martin as Shrek employed a cool Scots accent moving with ease around the stage.  Bella Withnell as Fiona was winsome and attractive while Grace Mumby and Polly Gelding showed us the comic sides of Pinocchio and Gingy. Having to move about on his knees, (talk of suffering for your art), James Crickmore was well cast as Lord Farquaad. Jessica Austin, Thalia Kermine Keramida, Caeragh McCloy, Scarlet Simonite and Kaden Doult, the co-starring Principals all impressed. The ensemble, too many to mention by name, were magnificent. Each one of them bringing a touch of class to their many varied characters. They were a well drilled team. And this is what it is all about - team work. Not trying to outdo anyone else, having respect for your fellow performers and aiming high to achieve an entertaining performance for the audience.

As Technical Director George Bailey exceled. His list of credits is already impressive. I am sure he will be well chuffed to add “Shrek” to his CV.

The choreography was inspired. I am always in awe of anyone who has the rare ability to add that those little surprises that make me smile with joy. This show contained many delightful surprises not the least of which was Donkey’s splits which produced more than a smile in my ageing body! Thank you, Cathryn Osborne.

The costumes were wonderful, a real team effort by Gillian Mason, Madeline Masters and Anne Dunlop. Steven Manley’s lighting was precise and the sound in the capable hands of Frankie Harrison—Bradley, sharp. Everyone involved in this show is to be admired for their contribution to a show that was much appreciated by the audience.

I haven’t mentioned Lewis Mumby yet. The role of Donkey is a gem of a role for an actor that has the talent to do it justice. Young Mr. Lewis certainly has that talent (as I remarked in an earlier review). What makes his performances so good is that he does not attempt to upstage or outplay anyone. It is a discipline that many “star” actors working in the profession today would be well advised to restudy.

I enjoyed this show very much. I left the theatre feeling confident for the future of musical theatre in this part of Lancashire.

 Disappointment will certainly not haunt all my dreams!

Thank you, Julie for a brilliantly presented pot of tea and biscuits at the interval. The spoon was positioned immaculately on the saucer. The Hippodrome’s hospitality is truly legendary.

And so on to the next show, you Talented Team. Have fun until I have the pleasure of seeing you all again.

 

 

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