I must be honest, I only went to see Shrek because I am a huge fan of Starcross Theatre Company, having been wowed by them on many occasions. You see, when I saw another production of Shrek a few years ago, I did not enjoy it. This, however, was not the case with Starcross. OMG! Fantastic performances with so much energy, bringing the story to life in a way which had me hooked from the start.
Based on the 2001 film of the same name, Shrek is a fairytale which delivers off the wall scenarios and plotlines that oddballs like me love. And this musical version by David Lindsay-Abaire has all those elements in it, plus a decent score from Jeanie Tesori. Great humour without being corny.
In the lead role was Mitchell Griffiths who totally captured the character of Shrek. Strong voice in both song and spoken dialogue. A perfect performance. Now, Starcross always split their shows into two casts for many of the lead parts, taking alternate shows and Shrek was no exception. On my viewing, Kelsey Taylor played Princess Fiona, and I was impressed by not only the amazing voice and acting, but also when not centre stage. Facial expressions and reactions which came across perfectly. As Donkey we had Tia Rafferty who totally owned this extrovert role. Then, playing Lord Farquaad was Darius Stirbat, embracing this character well and taking all the hits that the script throws. The voice behind the dragon was courtesy of Scarlet Bennett. Top marks for that. I also enjoyed Daisy Lunt’s Pinocchio for its excellent comic portrayal. Then, I must credit Lexie Jennings and Lily-Grace Palmer as the young and teen Fionas during I Know it’s Today, which was my favourite number of the night.
Other songs which hit the mark for me were Build a Wall, Freak Flag, Who I’d Be and the rousing finale of I’m a Believer. Credit must go to Ben Batt as MD for getting the best out of the cast, particularly as I know how hard it is working to backing tracks. And that brings me to a point. Some might scoff at backing tracks with musical theatre snobbery, but saving costs are the only way many companies can survive. Shame for the musicians, but that’s life in the 21st century.
Christine Cross, Lily Cross and Alex Hill played Fiona, Donkey and Farquaad, respectively on other performances, and there were, of course, many other alternates, but it’s too complicated for my brain to work it out. Therefore, the rest of the cast of Shrek were (Here we go, and tell me if I’ve missed anybody) Summer Taylor, Lauren Downs, River Onions, Dimitri McDonald, Jay McDonald, Sharon Mokam, Ashleigh Foster, Jack Harley, Lotte Wilkes, Cole Bennett, Elise Harrison, Callum Brothwood, Grace Fletcher-Brown, Ellie Fletcher-Brown, Zadie Wilson-Smith, Requane Wade, Harry Webb, Alexa Nutting, Tyler Nutting, Jaime Nutting, Millie Hateley, Sophie Spruce and Xanthe Marshall.
In addition to the already mentioned musical direction, Phil Cross MBE directed and produced Shrek along with Belinda Cross and Christine Cross on production and choreography. And that latter regarding the dance must also get a mention of praise. Excellent, as was the marvellous set for which the movements during scene changes ran like clockwork. Also, some great costumes and makeup. A good production all round.
This was so much better than the version I saw a couple of years ago. It meant something to those on stage and I felt immersed and part of it. I have been coming to see Starcross for a few years now and do not intend to stop. Youth Theatre is the future, and Starcross are one of the best.
Cheers.
Antony N Britt
*Photos taken from social media during the entire run and may not relate to the performance reviewed here.
Antony N Britt - Author 