Shrek, the musical

Shrek, the musical seemed a perfect choice of show for this very talented group of young performers. Under the creative guidance and vision of Harry Carnaby and Charlie Staunton the cast wove a fabulous storyline amid scenery of woodland glades and characters from all the good storybooks.

The set consisted of layers of cut cloths and gauzes which enabled the pace of the show to flow smoothly and, in the case of the gauzes, magically. Through clever lighting, characters were able to appear and disappear in a second and the cloths were being flown in to move the action along. This is no mean feat with nearly 90 children on the stage and involves careful planning and a watchful eye from the chaperones. I know you had troubles with the set supplier but, to me, it looked great. Congratulations to all those who made these last-minute solutions work. It looked flawless.

Shrek, played by Hugh McClenaghan, was lovely and maintained a Scottish accent throughout the performance. This was a big part and Hugh brought him to life wonderfully. I loved his song, ‘Who I’d be’. Shrek’s side kick, Donkey, was played by Luke Kempster on the day I visited. Luke had captured the cheeky, drole but energetic character so well. This is a lovely role to play and Luke mastered it so well. I really enjoyed his song, ‘Make a Move’ . Fiona, played by the very talented Larni- Rae Rouse, was captivating. She has a strong, tuneful voice full of character and wit. She obviously enjoyed this part and made the most of every line. Her song ‘Good morning’ was fabulous and the tap dancing was very impressive! I feel that she has a great future in theatre if she chooses to take it.

The first song, Big Bright Beautiful World, introduced us to the whole cast and what a joyous, colourful world it was. Everyone dressed in fabulous costumes singing and dancing their hearts out. It’s so lovely to see performers from 6 years old to 18 all joining together to make a show. The green cast had 2 shows that day and some long rehearsals behind them but they were all full of energy and fun. Well done to all the cast, creative and production team as well as chaperones in supporting this production. I can’t mention all the characters but I will pick out a few. Lord Farquaad, Elliot Riddell, managed his short legs attached to his knees to great effect especially when dismounting from his horse. Elliot too had a strong voice and great stage presence. Gingy, Pearl Russell, managed her part beautifully as well. She had confidence, a great’ Gingerbread man’ delivery and a strong voice. Pinocchio, Ava Moule, and Sugar Plum fairy, Freya Hampton Street, were both strong performers with a great stage presence. I must mention the Dragon, played by Timoya -Monae Thompson. What a fabulous performance with a great soulful delivery of her songs and rhythm in every bone of her body. Supported by an amazing backing group all dressed from head to toe in sequins they were show stoppers with their dance moves and powerful singing.

The band, led by musical director Benjamin Page, was amazing. We couldn’t see them but the wonderful sound they produced was great. I especially like the playout which I am sure was where they really let their hair down. It was terrific! The way the band supported the singers was just lovely and the range of instruments was impressive. Benjamin had coaxed some lovely harmonies and blends of voices from the young people especially in the 3 Fionas song! The young Fiona, Eva Wheeler, the middle Fiona, Harmony Quinn, and the grown-up Fiona all held their lines in the song and blended beautifully. The transition from one Fiona to the next was cleverly performed by each Fiona sharing a note to pass on the baton. Well done. The captain of the guard, Jude Gray, stood out as well for his confidence and great characterisation.

Drew Evans choreography was, as always, delightful with some great modern moves and every member of the cast was fully involved and having fun. This was really on display in the song ‘What’s up Duloc’ where all the students were on stage.

There were some sound hiccups but this was the first performance of the run so it was understandable and the lighting was great.

I always enjoy my visits to Your Time to Shine shows because I know that I will enjoy an afternoon of fun and enjoyment. Thank you so much for a lovely visit. I look forward to your next show.

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