Shrek The Musical
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16/02/2020
Review by Irena Begelfor
Shrek The Musical hit Her Majesty’s Theatre this Wednesday night, opening the stage with an oversized, digital storybook. As the characters leapt from within the pages, the intoxicating excitement of these fictional characters having a life grew stronger.
In the first few minutes and in a comedic playful way, we meet Shrek’s parents and learn about his childhood. As the pages unfold, this newfound information puts a few things in context that the Shrek films don’t tell. When finally Shrek bids his parents goodbye, the stage is shaken up, and enters, centre stage, the terrifying Ogre, Shrek.
This grotesque, huge beast of green, played by Ben Mingay, has a booming, full-bodied voice and a captivating stage presence. Reading his biography left me surprised. This man is so accomplished in the world of theatre, television and film and yet he was originally a construction worker who was dared to audition for the Conservatorium of Music by his friends. The rest, as they say, is history. Ben has such spunk on stage. He shines in the role of Shrek as both a frightful ogre and also a charismatic, generous creature capable of love.
Todd McKenney plays the role of Lord Farquaad. For the most part, McKenney is on his knees with his legs well disguised behind a set of false limbs that looked like they are made with foam padding. Watching him move on stage is nothing short of hilarious with his little, dangly legs moving very quickly before the rest of his body. McKenney depicts the cruel and greedy lord perfectly but who could take him seriously? He was just too funny to watch.
Lucy Durack plays the role of Princess Fiona. She has a gorgeous stage presence and delightful voice. The scene where princess Fiona and Shrek have a farting and burping competition had the audience in stitches. It was their strange and playful way of flirting.
The impressive Marcia Hines played the role of dragon. It would have been fabulous if she had a bigger role to play. It was a pleasure to hear her sing.
And yet, my favourite character in this show (as in the original movie, played by Eddie Murphy) is Donkey. This Donkey has the coolest moves and the jazziest voice. Nat Jobe shines in this role.
What would this show be without the crowd of colourful fairy-tale characters such as the wiggling Ugly Duckling, played by Annie Chiswell and Red Riding Hood, played by Monique Salle or Pinocchio with the helium sounding voice, played by Caleb Vines; in fact each of the fairy-tale characters shone in their own unique personality. Tim Hatley’s costume design has no limit in creativity.
It is refreshing that this show engaged a live orchestra. Under the competent musical direction of Dave Skelton, the band belts out some great tunes and is a solid backing for the cast.
Shrek The Musical is one of these shows you don’t want to miss. Besides the kind message that it delivers, this show brings so much joy and laughter to both young and not so young audience.
Highly Recommended!
You can catch Shrek the Musical at the following venues:
Her Majesty's Theatre, Melbourne - from 16 February
Lyric Theatre, QPAC, Brisbane - from 9 May