Shrek The Musical

The Bohemians were so very disappointed when their production of ‘Shrek The Musical’ was cancelled two years ago just a week before it’s opening date. It was therefore a brave decision to go ahead this year knowing the financial implications of staging this show, wondering if audiences were ready to return to the theatre, and concern that Covid might ripple through the cast. But going ahead was certainly the right decision. Despite the difficulties of the last two years and although changes had to be made in the cast and orchestra during the week and I’m sure lots of fingers were crossed, the production team and cast pulled off an energetic and polished first class production which, in my opinion, was comparable with any professional production.

Based on the film, the storyline is well known and there are expectations of how characters should be portrayed. In the title character role, Andrew Gardiner gave a flawless performance in this demanding role and brought real depth to the character. His physical appearance, wonderful stage presence, excellent singing voice and acting skills combined to make him the perfect, loveable green giant.

Shrek’s peaceful existence in his swamp is interrupted by the arrival of a mob of fairy tale characters who have been expelled by Lord Farquuad of Duloc and who descend upon his swamp. These many larger than life fairy tale characters made a real impact with their fabulous costumes and brought reality to their own individual characters with their mannerisms and movement. Ross McPherson as Pinocchio and Kirsty Hogg as Gingy both gave delightful performances.

On his journey to find Lord Farquuad in order to regain his privacy in his swamp, Shrek meets up with and is accompanied by his loyal friend Donkey. Alex Singh revelled in this part with his animated facial expressions, excellent comic timing and inexhaustible energy. There was a genuine bond between Shrek and Donkey who was a true friend in his determined efforts to make sure that Shrek and Fiona lived happily ever after, The children in the audience loved Donkey.

Rachael Anderson was a convincing Fiona contrasting the sadness she felt in being cursed and locked away as a child with her feisty determination in both her acting and vocally. The scene portraying the three stages of her life with young and teenage Fiona was quite enchanting On the performance I attended young Fiona and teenage Fiona were played by Violet Beattie and Olivia McGowan respectfully (these parts were double cast) . ‘I Know It’s Today’ was a joy to listen to and I’m sure revealed stars of the future.

The so called ‘baddie’ of this piece is Lord Farquuard who is somewhat ruthless in his aim to rescue Fiona and make her his bride. Dominic Lewis gave an absolutely brilliant performance as the diminutive Lord extracting the comedy from the role with his perfect comic timing and wonderful singing voice. He certainly mastered the art of walking on his knees working his short legs and costume. This was brilliantly done but must have been painful by the end of the week. He was a most likeable bad guy!

One of the stand out performances was Rebecca Drever’s Dragon. Her stunning voice almost raised the roof of the theatre and she also looked amazing.

This most talented principal line up was surrounded by a very strong ensemble who were dynamic and effervescent in both singing and in executing the very slick, varied and well rehearsed choreography. I loved the tap routine.

Spectacular costumes added to the overall visual impact of this production. This is a very heavy show technically but the many scene and costume changes were slick and smooth. Although there were several changes in the pit during the week due to positive Covid tests, with some musicians sight reading, the orchestra sounded very good indeed and supported the singers.

The final ‘I’m a Believer’ created an almost euphoric atmosphere both on stage and in the auditorium. This was altogether a wonderful production in every way and I’m sure that, despite the worries and hiccups, the Bohemians should very proud and satisfied that ‘Shrek The Musical’ was certainly a real winner.

 

 

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