SHREK, THE MUSICAL is an ideal choice for a high school drama group and Bald Eagle Area Drama Club did it proud. The show requires a large cast with several fun featured parts, giving some up and coming “stars” a chance to shine. The problem for a reviewer is that it is hard to give everyone as much space here as he or she deserves.
Sets kept with the fairy tale theme, simple and easily moved. I loved the fabric draped trees. If the idea has been used before, it was new to me. Costumes also kept to the traditional fairy tale ideas. It was easy to spot the Wicked Witch, Humpty Dumpty, Peter Pan, The White Rabbit, etc.They also provided good choral music.
Shrek and Fiona were played by seniors Cody Mandell and Abby Crago. Both roles demanded a lot of stage time and even more energy. Their best number though was “ I Think I Got You Beat”. It reminded me of “Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better” from Annie Get Your Gun only with belches. We will miss the two of them in future plays.
Two of the featured players who really stood out were Matthew Blaylock as Lord Farquaad and Colton Lucas as Pinocchio. Matthew not only captured the little lord, but played the role on his knees throughout the show. His dance steps had to be seen. Colton channelled Pinocchio perfectly. I have heard Colton sing on other occasions and was amazed how he kept Pinocchio’s voice true to character.
Virginia Hillman was the voice of the Dragon and it was the voice of a dragon. Virginia is a sophomore so we should be seeing much more of her in the coming years. The dragon puppeteers need special recognition; they were Virginia as well as Kate Snyder, Emily Jozefik, and Sarah Torres. It was actually believable when Dragon “flew” over the crowd.
I loved the energy of the show, especially Tyler Bickle’s Donkey. Shrek’s fast- talking, all-over-the-stage best friend could easily have stolen the show. Tyler is another senior who will be missed.
There were so many neat little touches. The choreography was fresh and fun. I loved the “ What’s Up Duloc?” number.The sets were well designed. Everyone stayed in character while having fun. And, of course, Shrek has one of the best curtain calls in theatre. The night that I was there, the packed house joined the cast and crew in “ I’m a Believer” because we were.
Good job Ms Allison and Mr Brinser, as usual.
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