REVIEW: ‘Shrek the Musical’, performed by Newark Amateur Operatic Society, is based on the original DreamWorks film
‘Shrek the Musical’ based on the story of the much-loved, anti-social ogre from the original DreamWorks film, features a storyline that completely rewrites the traditional fairy tales and turns them upside down, writes Julie Addison.
Performed by Newark Amateur Operatic Society and directed by Mike Follen, this is a glorious romp around the ‘perfect’ town of Dulac (an obvious dig at Disney) while touching on themes of friendship, prejudice and inclusion.
I had to keep reminding myself I was watching an amateur show and not a West End production. Shrek is not just a children’s show, but it is a joyous, celebration of love, friendship with a powerful message of being yourself in the face of prejudice.
Some magnificent performances on display from every single person on stage and I was blown away by the vocals and dancing skills of many of the characters. The fairy-tale creatures were wonderful, each inhabiting their own individual character with matching facial expressions and mannerisms.
Some very strong interpretations from all and impressive harmonies and inventive choreography especially in the uplifting ‘Freak Flag’ when they realised, they were freaks and proud.
Jade Mulligan as Fiona was a tour de force. She tap-danced, sang and acted her way through making a perfect Princess with a hint of quirkiness while giving knowing glances and winks at the audience. Her relationship with Shrek was sweet and touching as she overturned years of programming as the fairy tale heroine, she believed herself to be.
Her final acceptance that she was beautiful in Shrek’s eyes was a particularly touching moment.
Ollie Kirkwood was excellent as Donkey with his quick-fire delivery and witty lines he created a version of Donkey, who despite his annoying need for chatter, had a heart of gold.
He also showed his talent for song especially featuring his lead vocals with the three blind mice channelling his own Otis Redding. Ben Towle as Lord Farquaad very nearly stole the show with his camp villainy and obvious enjoyment of the role.
He was perfect as the would be king of Dulac with daddy issues keeping his role just the right side of evil, so we laughed rather than booed his performance.
Whenever Ben was on stage, he was literally acting his little boots off.
Shrek himself, William Dewick, was the driving force of the show with his pitch perfect Scottish accent and self-deprecating humour, he developed and changed before our eyes from a reclusive ogre into the fairy tale hero who finally gets his girl.
William’s relationship with Donkey was wonderful ranging from frustration to a true friendship and his growing attraction to Fiona was lovely. His ability to create a sensitive soul with a wicked sense of humour, despite the prosthetics is testimony to his acting skills.
The whole cast were supported by an enthusiastic ensemble who took on various roles as happy villagers screaming in terror at Shrek, palace guards, residents of Dulac or tap-dancing rats and singing mice. The final scene where everyone was on stage was just like an illustration from a fairy tale book.
Well done to Newark Amateur Operatic Society and congratulations to Director Mike Follen and an incredibly talented creative team of Katy Stafford, Choreographer, Paul O’Leary, Musical Director and a production team led by Roseann Edis, and anyone involved in bringing this sensational show to life.
This is the Society’s 90th anniversary and long may they continue producing quality shows for their audiences to enjoy well into the future.
