Shrek – The Musical

Report on

Glastonbury & Street Musical Comedy Society’s

Production of 

“Shrek – The Musical”

Director – Matthew Maisey,

Musical Director – Lynne Merrifield,

Choreographer – Shelly Smith,

Producers – Sarah Roberts & Jess Russell.

 

As seen by Bob Allen, NODA SW District 14 Representative -

( on behalf of Kate Marshall )

on Thursday, 10th, April, 2025

at Strode Theatre, Street, Somerset. BA16 0AB

PLEASE NOTE: 

Any observation made by the reviewer can only be based on what he sees at the performance in question.  The reviewer may have received information in advance of the performance, and it is inevitable that his assessment will be effected by that knowledge.

The N.O.D.A. Representative’s intention is to give an objective critique of the overall production and in particular the performance viewed.  It should be remembered that any review of this nature can only be objective as far as the techniques used during the performance observed.  Any criticisms expressed may not have been valid at other performances, and are only made to encourage higher standards in Amateur Theatre.

It is hoped that the audience’s appreciation of your efforts will have given everyone a lift and encouraged you to greater achievements in the future and that the observations made by the reviewer will prove helpful in improving future productions.

This was my first visit to Strode Theatre where I found a packed audience waiting for the show to commence. The theatre has a racked seating system, a stage high enough that tabs and flats could be “flown” into the roof space and a traditional small orchestra pit. Sadly from my seat I did not get a full head-on view of the acting area and probably did not appreciate most of the lighting effects which utilised mainly spots. The society had, I believe,  rented all the scenery and costumes but I did not learn if this was a condition with the script rental. The group had placed some of their own light boxes around the pros arch. This gave a planned and random light show which added to the overall cheerful effect on the stage. As this was a light-hearted show the lighting was functional more than artistic. There was plenty of movement in the multiple scene cloths used on all the scenes. I was confused as new scenes seem to drop down whilst acting was still happening on stage. The small amount of additional props and scenery were moved effectively by the cast. 

Most of the cast were wired for mics and these worked well and was at a volume that suited a full house. The musicians for the show were the best I’ve heard in a long time and are to be praised for their good work. They were a great support to the cast and took their timing from those on stage. 

Shrek was played so effectively by Scott. He had a good clear speaking and singing voice and was adored by the audience. He wore raised shoes to give extra height which did slow him down although he coped well with his dance moves. Scott managed to show all the sides to the ogre and held the show together. His work with Fiona was good to watch as they worked well together.

The role of Fiona was played beautifully by Jess. She was such a good foil to Shrek and had a great singing voice and excellent diction. Jess lit up the stage on each appearance – so much energy and poise. She was the Princess to please all the young girls in the audience. Also I would like to mention the younger versions of Fiona. They were an added bonus to the singing and story line and worked so well with the older actress. Well done girls!

Donkey was superbly played by Dean and again was loved by the audience. He coped so well with singing and dancing with hooves and large ears. We fully followed his friendship with Shrek and how important his role was in resolving the love affair. Sadly I missed much of his dialogue as he was trying too hard, in my view, to emulate the vocals of the screen donkey -which he did not need to do. He was doing an excellent job anyway. Yet another cast member bringing energy to the stage. 

Lord Farquad, last but not forgotten – who could? Played with tongue firmly in cheek by Christian. Who allowed him on stage to steal all the scenes? Here was the real clown of the show and didn’t the audience just love him. My heart goes out to all the other actors who had to be on stage with him! How did they keep a straight face? Well done Christian – not often will you get another role like that. You made the most of it 

There were many highlights to the show but I was impressed by the following:-

Any scene where all the characters were present alongside the leads. Their colourful costumes and movement around the packed stage were beautifully executed. Not once did anyone appear out of place and all were kept moving to ensure that they were all seen on the front line at some time. The variety of bodies and shapes on stage were excellent. Congratulations to everybody involved for “acting” whilst on stage. So often crowd scenes are spoilt by someone not in character.

The early dance scene with Lord Farquad and his soldiers. Brilliant and bold colours hit your eyes and his lordship almost stole the scene. 

The sequence where Fiona dances with the rats. Well rehearsed and energetic. 

Donkey and the blind mice. One of the best dance sequences in my view.

Of course the audience really enjoyed the Shrek & Fiona number “I think I got you beat” and the finale song of “I’m a believer” - such a good way to say goodnight!

 

Congratulations Glastonbury and Street Musical Comedy Society judging from the audience reaction you’ve had a successful show.

Kind regards

Bob Allen. NODA SW district 14 Representative (standing in for Kate Marshall)

 

N.B. The comments above are solely the view of the representative attending and only reflects the performance seen.

 

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