Shrek the Musical

Based on the well-loved film, lightly adapted for the stage, the story of Shrek has become familiar to children and parents alike.  As many will know, the story revolves around our hero Shrek, who finds himself on a life-changing journey, in the company of a wisecracking Donkey and a (very) feisty princess!

The staging was very clever and served multi-purposes which kept the well-managed stage crew on their toes. Props, hair and make-up were first-rate.  The costumes were outstanding — well done to Jenny Ives, Phil Melia and the costume team who had spent over 400 hours on props and costumes in preparation for the show.  An especially big shout out to Phil Melia for the Dragon, Puppet and the amazing Prosthetics.

Lighting was good in the main with only the odd missed cue.  Sound though was a big problem being over-loud throughout the show.  Further problems were caused with the body-mics either crackling, cutting out or not working at all. Unfortunately these problems persisted throughout the performance on the first night.

Musical Director Amy Power guided the cast through some quite difficult music and Choreographer Philly Macfarlane and Assistant Ella Webb had certainly hit the spot with the dance aspects of the production, especially the tap routine.  They had obviously worked the cast incredibly hard in rehearsal and without exception everyone gave one hundred per cent of what was expected of them.

In the title role of Shrek Phil Melia was a tour de force.  His was an outstanding performance which he maintained throughout the whole show. Not an easy task as he didn’t get much of a break. He was a joy to watch. 

Ben Penfold gave a super performance as the loveable Donkey. His characterisation was spot on. The onstage chemistry with “Shrek” was perfect.

Maddy Bush as Princess Fiona had a good rapport with Shrek and Donkey ensuring this trio worked well together.  “I Know It’s Today” with Teen and Young Fiona (Izzy Lanchester and Alice Hornsby) was one of my favourite points in the show.  Well done to Young Fiona who didn’t let the fact that her mic wasn’t switched on faze her during her solo spot.

I loved Lord Farquaad superbly played by Dale Hornsby. He was hilarious.  The dance with the guards was very funny. His costume was excellent and the audience eagerly anticipated his every entrance.

The Dragon was, I am sure, equally eagerly anticipated by the young members of the audience and was well managed by her puppeteer. The Dragon was played by Melissa Middleton who had a lovely costume and delivered a powerful vocal performance.

Most of the 30 plus cast played dual roles. There were too many characters to mention them all by name but this clever script allows each person their own chance to shine.  They all worked well together with each performer characterising their fairy tale role well.

This very challenging show is a huge undertaking for any society and everyone involved rose to the occasion to help make it a success.  Congratulations to Director Kevin Rooney, MD Amy Power and Choreographer Ella Webb and all involved in this production.   I thoroughly enjoyed standing in for your own District Rep.  Thank you for inviting me along and for the warm welcome I received.

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