Shrek - The Musical

This was an excellent choice of show to celebrate M.A.M.A’s  75th Anniversary.

Based on the film, the story of ’Shrek’ is well known and there are expectations of how the characters should be portrayed. It is a wonderfully entertaining show with a real ‘feel good’ factor.

The principal characters to a degree are responsible for the success of the show and this cast certainly did not disappoint.

Shrek is a most demanding role and Euan Dixon was perfectly cast as the unfortunate ogre trying to protect his swamp when it is invaded by a host of fairytale characters who have been expelled from their own land. With a great stage presence and physical appearance and excellent singing voice he commanded the stage and certainly endeared himself to the audience who felt his pain in the heartfelt ‘Who I’d Be’ with Donkey and Fiona and the soulful ‘When Word’s Fail’.

Kevin McConnachie gave a fabulous portrayal as Donkey, Shrek’s friend and adviser. He too created a most loveable character with wonderful comedic timing and high level energy performance. Quirky mannerisms and facial expressions all added to this first class characterisation. ‘Make A Move’ with the three blind mice was most enjoyable. Shrek and Donkey made a formidable partnership complementing each other with great interaction bringing out the best in each other.

We hear Princess Fiona’s story of her life growing up. Daisy Dougan as young Fiona and Kendra Laird teenage Fiona were quite charming. The trio ‘I Know It’s Today’ was beautifully sung. Daisy Morrison gave a convincing performance as Princess Fiona. Not only did she have a lovely singing voice and could tap dance well but she brought depth to the character, feisty at times but also showing her vulnerability as demonstrated in the number ‘This Is How Dreams Come True’ with Shrek and Donkey. The emotional connection between Shrek and Fiona came across very well indeed. These three main characters worked perfectly together.

Dragon may not be a huge role but Kirsty McBain made a real impact with her powerful singing voice. ‘Forever’ certainly raised the roof of the theatre.

The ‘baddy’ of this piece  is Lord Farquaad who has expelled all the fairy characters from his domain and who is determined to marry Princess Fiona. This is a very difficult part to play due to his diminutive appearance but Graeme Aitken most certainly mastered the art of walking on his knees whilst working his short legs and costume. Dancing and getting on and off his horse  was brilliant. I hope he had good knee pads! ‘The Ballad of Farquaad’ was sung with real conviction and was most entertaining. Both he and Shrek made a real impression in their first leading roles.

The many fairy tale characters  looked fabulous in their most colourful, eye catching costumes and all exuded vitality on stage. The ensemble was in great voice supported by a small but enthusiastic band and confidently executed the varying styles of choreography. The many scene changes were neatly handled by the ‘stage elves’. Good lighting also enhanced the production.

It was so good to see a full house who obviously enjoyed the production and who were happy to join in with the rousing final ‘I’m A Believer.’

This was a thoroughly enjoyable well staged production which was very well directed by a dedicated production team. The fun and enthusiasm enjoyed on stage transferred to the most appreciative audience.

Congratulations M.A.M.A. on an excellent 75th Anniversary production.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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