Shrek The Musical

A super evening’s entertainment was provided to a packed auditorium by the Junior Section of Gateshead Musical Theatre Company with their lively production of Shrek the Musical. Under the skilful and intuitive guidance of director Lee Brannigan and with the support of a dedicated production team, this show had everything you could wish for an enjoyable theatrical experience.

With a cast of over 40 performers and with the use of some cleverly operated interactive props and scenery it some logistical manoeuvres to make it work and be believable. My how it worked and delivered. The Ensemble in super costumes that fitted the bill and all of whom portrayed a fairy tale character were spot on both with their libretto and movement throughout and were having a really great time of things on stage, as witnessed by their beaming facial expressions. As for those who had Principal roles, I cannot praise them too highly. For young performers they showed a high degree of stagecraft that you might come to expect from well-seasoned actors.

Freddie Scott took the lead role of Shrek and perhaps as the lynch pin of the show his portrayal of this many faceted and complex character was excellent. He showcased the bombast of the character but also the pathos and vulnerability that was at the heart of him.

The role of Princess Fiona is of paramount importance, and it is vital that the actor, like that of Shrek, has to show all the complexities of the character. Fortunately that was in the hands of Ellen Ledgerwood  and could not have been better placed. She sparkled throughout and her stage presence, interpretative characterisation vocal range and dancing made her the complete package.

If you want someone to play the comedy role of Donkey, then there is no one better at this level than Daniel Burlison. For me he gets better and better the more he performs. So, it was in this role as the self-appointed friend and confidant He held the stage whenever he appeared, and all aspects of his stage craft were on view, and he gave a bravura performance.

Another notable award-winning performer is Ted Gladstone. An actor with great potential his interpretation of the evil but inadequate Lord Farquaad was great fun to watch. The question was how he would tackle the role of a man who was short in stature. Those who know the show are aware that Lord Farquaad is not one of life’s giants. Therefore, Ted had to perform the role on his knees throughout He did so without a blemish including complex dance routines.

Whilst the Dragon was a large movable stage prop the voice over and vocals were provided by Darcy Ranasinghe. What a presence! Looking completely at home in this environment her voice was outstanding and drew its rewards when drawing rapturous applause from the audience.

Finally special mention for George Anglesea (Pinocchio) and Lucy Wilkinson (Gingy the Gingerbread Man) for two lovely cameo roles. Also, the Dragonnettes (Lucy, Katie and Amber) who had the unenviable task of manoeuvring the Dragon around stage.

No show is complete without a rousing finale. This one did to a standing ovation with a rendition of the Monkees’  I’M A BELIEVER. Continue in this way many more will do so. I certainly am with this showcase of wonderful local talent.

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