Shrek The Musical Review
Posted on: 2018-08-13
Our rating:
True to the original film, with accessible humour for both children and adults alike, this enchanting musical adaptation will have you laughing and engaged from beginning to end. A must-see for all ages!
Turning a well-loved animated children’s film into a musical for the stage cannot be an easy feat, however on this occasion I can honestly say that it has been a rousing success. David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori have managed to create musical numbers that not only adhere to, but also enhance the existing storyline - even adding more depth to some of characters and their back stories.
As a true DreamWorks fan, Shrek is a film that I have watched so many times I can practically recite it word for word. Therefore, I had high hopes for this musical adaptation, but equally could have easily been left dissatisfied. However, upon seeing the show last night, I am over-the-moon to be able to say that my hopes were vastly exceeded. I am confident that this show will delight all those that see it – be they old or young; new to the joys of Shrek or long term fans.
Arriving at the Bristol Hippodrome, you could feel the excitement growing as everyone took their seats. Upon the stage, a large story book drew attention as we eagerly waited for the magic to begin - and we would not be disappointed. From the very beginning the fantastic imagery and clever use of projection transported the audience into the enchanted realm of Duloc.
As the opening scenes played out, we were introduced to all of the well-known fairy-tale characters. It was comforting to see that the original film had been well kept to, even down to the high-pitched peculiar voice of Pinocchio, and charming irritations of Donkey.
All of the cleverly engineered costumes were overflowing with bright colours and imagination. I won’t spoil any surprises, but particularly noteworthy are the designs for Lord Farquaad, the three little pigs and the Duloc chorus.
The well designed scenery and very smooth set changes led us between the easily recognisable classic film locations - such as Shrek’s smelly swamp, Lord Farquaad’s compensating castle and Princess Fiona’s misty Dragon guarded tower.
I must give special mention to the magnificent puppetry throughout the show. The spectacular designs and animations given to otherwise difficult characters to portray, were nothing less than genius. As was the simple yet effective way that we saw Princess Fiona change form before our very eyes!
The main characters (Shrek, Fiona and Donkey) were all performed superbly well. As well as all having amazing voices, each of them managed to capture every quirk and attitude that their characters are known and loved for. True-to-film representations that demonstrate a real understanding of each of their unique characters.
However, personally I believe it was actually the supporting characters that really stole the show. Namely the humorous villainy of Lord Farquaad, and a sensationally sassy Dragon. The choreography for both characters was marvelous, and must have been challenging for the performers and directors. Both Samuel Holmes (Lord Farquaad) and Lucinda Shaw (Dragon and Fairy Godmother) have fantastically strong singing voices, which were particularly well suited to the songs of their characters. Dragon's song “Forever" was definitely a highlight.
True to the original film, with accessible humour for both children and adults alike, this enchanting musical adaptation will have you laughing and engaged from beginning to end. A must-see for all ages!
Shrek The Musical is showing at The Bristol Hippodrome until Sunday 19th August 2018. Get Bristol Hippodrome tickets here.
Article by:
Raised in Bristol, Jacqui has been an active resident of this great city for most of her life. Passionate about travel and exploring different cultures, she enjoys exotic cuisine and is an avid fan of musical theatre, comedy and dance. With a truly eclectic love of music, she attends many gigs throughout the year, from up and coming local artists to large international festivals.
