Royal & Derngate Theatre, Northampton – until Saturday 27th April 2024
Review by Amanda Allen
5*****
What a treat! How lucky are we to have this production in Northampton! If I could give it 6* I would. From the opening, projected story book screen right through to the joyous singalong ending, it was spectacular. Taking an animated film and transferring it to a live stage performance is never an easy thing to do. Thanks to some incredible costumes and set design coupled with fabulous performances by ALL the cast it was done amazingly.
Telling the story of the Ogre Shrek played by Antony Lawrence and his journey to find true love with Princess Fiona played by Joanne Clifton, it followed the original screen story with beautiful, imaginative sets and costumes. Antony peeled back all of the Ogre, Shrek’s, onion like layers showing us the many facets of his character
The set and costume design team lead by Philip Witcomb did a terrific job with so many costumes and costume changes to manage. Many of the actors, in fat suits as well as full make-up, excelled themselves, dancing, singing and acting, all in character. The dancing was exceptional, we expect Joanne Clifton to be a great dancer, befitting her status as a world champion, but I didn’t expect her to be such a great actor and singer as well, She expressed the character of Fiona perfectly. Antony as Shrek must have been exhausted at the end of his performance, being on stage for most of the show again singing, dancing, and displaying all the characteristics expected of our favourite Ogre. My favourite part was when they realised, they had a lot in common with a burping and wind passing competition! Hilarious!
The group dance numbers were executed with great energy and accuracy, In particular the company dancing as Rats and the 3 blind mice set pieces, complete with hats and canes, were performed with great style by the company with fabulous feel-good music to accompany them. The Knights dancing complete with arm and leg chains showed us that good use of props can elevate a performance to a different level The actors portraying the young Shrek and the young Fiona were all outstanding, showing the development of the character’s from childhood to adult hood in a beautifully understated way.
The kingdom of Duloc ruled over by Lord Farqaad (James Gillan) was beautifully imagined, the signposting based on the famous Las Vagas sign was a great detail. For me the standout performance was from Brandon Lee Sears as the Donkey, his connection with the audience, execution of his dance moves, songs and dialogue all whilst in a heavy, furry, donkey costume, complete with big ears and an amazing tail, was exceptional. Everyone was in love with Donkey. He managed to portray the nuances of his character brilliantly throughout the show. The puppetry of the dragon was also brilliantly done, and her songs were sung with great feeling by Cherece Richards who also played the wicked witch.
By the end of the performance everyone was on their feet, smiling, laughing and happy. Judging by the audience reaction this show which is suitable for all ages, is not to be missed.