Shrek The Musical Jr

What a super show by the recently formed Goole Amateur Junior Section telling the fun story of ogre Shrek and his search for peace in his swamp.  Along the way he meets an interesting array of friends (and a not so friendly Lord) and Goole Juniors managed to create wonderful characters to share Shrek’s journey.

Nearly the whole cast welcomed us to their ‘Big Bright Beautiful World’ with a colourful opening featuring the fairytale characters who have been banished to the swamp by Lord Farquaad.  Everyone onstage presented in a different role and there were excellent portrayals by all the cast.  I particularly enjoyed the squeaky, nose growing Pinocchio played by Faith Hewlett, the delightful Gingy (Skyla Robinson) and the vibrant witch (Ruby Holland). 

Three story tellers kept us on track and up to speed through out the production and Belle Phillips, Evie Brannan and Sadie Lumley spoke and sang with clear voices throughout.  The princess of this fairytale is Fiona, locked away in a high tower.  We are initially introduced to her younger selves - Emily Carmichael and Layla Thompson gave us lovely transitions until we meet the ‘grown up’ Princess Fiona (Grace Smith) - who portrayed the edgy and complicated princess beautifully. 

Sophie Beighton was a super dragon who confidently managed the difficult song and entertained in her own quest for the love of Donkey.  Lord Farquaad is a challenging role for adults and Robert Broderick was very funny in this role and also managed the physicality of playing a somewhat ‘small’ Lord incredibly well – well done!  Emelia Wright was an engaging and entertaining Donkey with great projection, lots of energy and super timing.  The title role was taken by Leo Dillon who did an excellent job as the ogre.  His delivery of the many lines was super and he worked well with challenging prosthetics and a bulky costume - giving us a loveable Shrek.

Every cast member is worthy of a mention and their contribution to the production numbers and, in some cases, as multiple roles, gave the show great energy.  The tapping rats, Old Knights, Duloc Villagers and delightful birds also added to the show.

Costumes were excellent, as was make-up and prosthetics.  The set additions were well made and swiftly moved around the stage to add to the show.  Sound, light and special effects were to a high standard and the whole production was a great evening’s entertainment.

William Knight, Director, along with the Production Team and the Committee should be congratulated on an excellent first ‘full’ production from this new group.  I am looking forward to seeing future shows and hearing about their developments.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.