Rating: ★★★
Venue: Eventim Apollo, London
Cast: Antony Lawrence, Joanne Clifton, James Gillan, Todrick Hall and Cherece Richards
Based on the DreamWorks animated film, Shrek the Musical is a song and dance extravaganza with toe-tapping songs including “I’m A Believer”, “Big Bright Beautiful World” and “I Know It’s Today”. You’ll be humming along as Shrek, Donkey and Fiona fight not-so-fearsome dragons, face the arrogant Lord Farquaad, save the kingdom, and celebrate their individuality in a world of boring Prince Charmings.
Back in 2001, DreamWorks introduced Shrek to the world; a grumpy green ogre who stole the hearts of millions. In time, three more films followed, as well as a musical back in 2008. Shrek the Musical has a book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and is composed by Jeanine Tesori.
The musical follows a very similar story to that of the film. Our protagonist is a hulking green ogre who was abandoned by his parents at seven years, and has been treated as an outcast ever since. When a gang of fairytale characters appear in his swamp searching for a new home, Shrek will do anything to regain his peace. It's here that Shrek is sent on a mission by Lord Farquaad to rescue Princess Fiona from her tower and in return, he can regain the isolation he's so desperate for in his swamp. But when Shrek and Fiona meet, they realise they have more in common than they first thought.
I've found that one of the main problems with beloved films being translated onto stage is that as an audience member, you're so familiar with the story and its references that anything missed feels strikingly obvious and somewhat of a disappointment - and unfortunately, there were quite a few moments like this for me throughout the production.
The show teeters on pantomime at times with an incredible amount of cheesiness, which I think isn't helped by the rowdy audience members we had that evening and the sheer size of the theatre. While the size of the stage is wonderful at showcasing the magic of the bigger numbers, it struggles to capture the intimacy needed for softer moments. In saying this, the set and costume design by Philip Witcomb was outstanding; the costumes in particular. While watching songs such as "Story of My Life" and "Freak Flag", the attention to detail on stage was nothing short of jaw-dropping.
In terms of music, unfortunately, most songs were forgettable and I'm unable to remember any of the songs from last night's performance which is usually the sign of a lacklustre songbook. However, standout numbers to witness were "What's Up Duloc?", "I Think I Got You Beat" and "Freak Flag". And the show closing with "I Believe" was just the most incredible amount of fun as an audience member and it felt a shame for many people to leave before the curtain call had even ended; particularly as that was one of the highlights of the evening.
The entire cast is undoubtedly talented and from the incredible choreography from Nick Winston and the undeniable vocals throughout, it was a spectacle to watch. Funny and entertaining for both adults and children, with many double entendres thrown in (Lord Farquaad's, "give me a D, a big D" left me howling with laughter). Shrek the Musical is a perfect foray into musical theatre for younger ones because it's kept light-hearted and engaging throughout; even if some of the jokes do fall a little flat. And for more avid musical theatre fans, there were a few references littered throughout the show that'll bring a smile to your face, like homages to Wicked and Dreamgirls.
Todrick Hall truly embodies Eddie Murphy's unforgettable portrayal of Donkey in this production, even if at times it does feel slightly dialled down. And Joanne Clifton and Antony Lawrence have believable chemistry which leaves you rooting for their love story. However, the stars of the show are James Gillan as Lord Farquaad and Cherece Richards as Dragon. Gillan's portrayal of Farquaad is camp, sassy and rightly so earns the most laughter of the evening. From the opening notes of, "Forever", Richards wows the audience with breath-taking vocals that simply need to be seen to be believed.
There was a tap and dance scene which seemed to only be added to showcase Clifton's dancing skills which made it feel forced and unnatural. And in an attempt at adding current references, the use of Martha from Baby Reindeer felt a little on the nose considering it's based on a true story. And I understand the show was written back in 2008, but the problematic lyric, "though I seem a bit bipolar" and used as a quip to get laughs in "I Know It's Today" just felt slightly uncomfortable.
Despite my few criticisms, it made for an extremely fun evening out and is a great homage to one of the best-loved animated films of our time. It's largely upbeat, funny, accepting and one to enjoy with the whole family.
You can book tickets to Shrek the Musical, here.
**photo credit: Pamela Raith**
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