Shrek The Musical

Shrek the Musical is a vibrant, family-friendly adaptation of the beloved DreamWorks film, bringing to life the story of the grumpy but endearing ogre, Shrek. Set in a whimsical world filled with fairytale characters, the musical follows Shrek as he embarks on an unexpected journey to rescue Princess Fiona from her tower, all so he can reclaim his swamp. Along the way, he is joined by Donkey, his hilariously chatty sidekick, and faces numerous obstacles, including the comically villainous Lord Farquaad. At its core, the production explores themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and the idea that true beauty comes from within.

This was my first visit to Rochdale Musical Theatre Company performing at Champness Hall, and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed from the moment I stepped into the venue. My guest and I were warmly greeted by committee members and front-of-house officials, making us feel instantly at home. The hospitality extended to every audience member added to the inviting atmosphere of the evening.

As we settled into our seats, the staging immediately caught my attention. Visually stunning and meticulously designed, the open stage featured an impressive array of video projections screened on multiple borders and a large screen at the back, adding depth and dimension to the setting. Additionally, several well-placed props and set pieces hinted at the magical journey that was about to unfold.

From the energetic opening number, Big Bright Beautiful World, to the rousing finale with I’m a Believer, the cast brought the stage to life with extraordinary passion, dynamic performances, and powerful vocals. The choreography, masterfully crafted by Nikki Cooke, was both intricate and engaging, with formations that ensured every ensemble member was visible and actively contributing to the spectacle. This thoughtful staging choice reinforced the idea that each performer played a vital role in shaping the world of Shrek.

The fairytale characters added another layer of joy to the production. Pinocchio, portrayed by Ben Maguire, delivered a comedic gem with his insistence that he was a "real boy," punctuated by his magically growing nose—a well-executed moment that delighted the audience. Equally memorable were the three little pigs, played by Lauren Bates, Hannah Baxendale, and Charlotte Crossley. Their exaggerated German accents and impeccable comedic timing injected humour into every scene they appeared in.

Shrek himself was portrayed with excellence by Gareth Baddeley, who struck the perfect balance between gruff exterior and heartfelt vulnerability. His mastery of the character’s famous Scottish accent remained consistent throughout, adding authenticity to his portrayal. One of the standout moments for me was Gareth’s rendition of Build a Wall, a deeply emotional solo that fully conveyed Shrek’s frustration and loneliness. Equally impressive was his seamless handling of prosthetics, ensuring his physical appearance as the lovable ogre appeared effortless.

Zac McIntyre’s performance as Donkey was nothing short of phenomenal. He commanded the stage with boundless energy, perfectly capturing Donkey’s lively personality and comedic quirks. His ability to deliver punchlines, engage in dynamic physical movements, and maintain a captivating presence made him a joy to watch. One of the hallmarks of a successful Shrek and Donkey pairing is their chemistry, and I must say, this duo nailed it. Their interactions were natural, entertaining, and full of warmth, proving that their rehearsed relationship translated beautifully onto the stage.

Another standout performance came from Ryan Brown as Lord Farquaad. His exaggerated movements, self-important attitude, and devilishly comedic timing resulted in one of the most enjoyable renditions of Farquaad I’ve seen. His ability to act while embodying the short stature of his character had the audience in fits of laughter, demonstrating his deep understanding of theatrical comedy.

The magical elements of the show reached new heights when Shrek encountered the Dragon, performed by the incredibly talented Rhiannon Thompson. Her commanding presence and powerhouse vocals in Forever made for an unforgettable moment in the production. Equally dynamic was Alison Baines as Princess Fiona. Her performance was characterised by strength, wit, and unwavering energy, seamlessly alternating between moments of vulnerability, playfulness, and fierce independence. Morning Person was a personal favourite, as she demonstrated not only her vocal prowess but also her ability to inject personality into the role.

Seb Lassandro’s direction deserves commendation. His casting choices were spot-on, ensuring every lead performer brought a unique and engaging presence to the stage. The careful attention to detail in character interactions, pacing, and comedic execution showcased his ability to craft a production that resonated with the audience.

The scenic design by Nick Tiernan and Sarah Oxley further enriched the storytelling, with imaginative elements that supported the whimsical world of Shrek. Lighting effects were thoughtfully executed, transitioning scenes with vibrant shifts that heightened emotional moments. Adding to the magic was the live orchestration, directed by Chris Addington. Though hidden from view, the orchestra’s presence was unmistakable, providing a dynamic and cohesive musical foundation that enhanced the production’s energy.

Overall, Rochdale Musical Theatre Company’s Shrek the Musical was a feast for the senses—filled with humour, heart, and an undeniable enthusiasm for storytelling. Every single performer radiated confidence and commitment, ensuring the audience remained thoroughly engaged from start to finish. It was a pleasure to experience such a high-quality production, and I sincerely look forward to seeing more performances from this talented company in the future.

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