Shrek The Musical

This is a monster of a musical based on the myth and legend of one monster that was to be feared. That monster was an ogre and Shrek is such a monster.  Exiled as a youngster, he has been living alone in his swamp until he is invaded by a group of fairytale characters who have been exiled by the evil Lord Farquaad. Shrek goes to get things back to normal and makes friends with Donkey and meets Princess Fiona.  From then on through song mainly, Shrek teaches traits such acceptance, trust, love and belief which are so relevant to the modern audience.

Congratulations to the team of five directors who have brought this very good production to life with the great costumes and dance routines making for a complete night of entertainment. Such a range of characters stimulated my imagination even more as the story evolved. The use of symbolic items allowed the set to be free for the large cast and the dance routines.

Shrek was played by Tim Buckney, who developed well into the role after a somewhat vague start. From then on, he was Shrek in all ways.  Fiona, the developing love interest of Shrek, was very well played by Stephanie Collins with her singing and acting talent.  These two interact very well. However, the donkey dominated so many scenes primarily because of the performance of Natalie Mead in the role. Her performance as Donkey rates as one of the best I have seen in recent times.  This cast of Shrek was very well balanced and of a consistent good standard.  Congratulations to all.

The second act seemed to flow more freely as the confidence built after some initial clarity issues. It is quite a long play but Act 2 was over seemingly so quickly. A very enjoyable night at the theatre for me and it would be for all.  Well done Arts Theatre.

William Davies