Shrek Jr
23rd to 25th June 2023
23rd to 25th June 2023
|
Read the review of this show by our NODA representative Deborah Jea
DATE - 25th June 2023 VENUE - Ingatestone and Fryerning Community Theatre DIRECTOR - Emma Jane Sweeney MUSICAL DIRECTOR - Ian Southgate CHOREOGRAPHER - Denyse Donnell Everyone on that stage gave their best, this was very much a team performance with every cast member contributing. But, having said that, I do think it would be remiss of me not to make mention of our four leads who were all amazing! Alex Davey as Shrek was outstanding. Great characterisation, great stage presence and worked ever so well with Princess Fiona and Donkey which is an essential element if this production is to succeed, well done young man. Imogen George created a wonderful Princess Fiona. Another one with great stage presence, a beautiful singing voice and again, worked really well with Donkey and Shrek, well done, great job. Tom Stubley did an amazing job with the role of Lord Farquaad. Great characterisation. |
Victoria McCallum took on the role of the ‘Noble Steed’ - Donkey and made the part her own. Wonderful characterisation, great mannerisms, never out of character and worked ever so well with Shrek and Princess Fiona well done, wonderful job.
I would like to make ‘special mention’ of two specific areas of this show which I thought had many highlights… choreography was amazing throughout. Cleverly devised, played to the strengths of this young cast, totally enhanced the show, well done Denyse great job. Vocals… Young Expressions have always been blessed with some outstanding young vocalists. If I may, let me highlight just a few… ‘I know it’s today’ sung by Alice Finlay (young Fiona), Sophie Finlay (teen Fiona) & Imogen George (Fiona)… well done. ‘Forever’ was the highlight for me… sung by Grace Kelly as The Dragon. Grace has a lovely voice and sang this to perfection. Finally, the finale song ‘I’m a Believer’… sung, danced and acted by the entire cast, amazing and a fitting end.
The Band: under the guidance of Ian Southgate (Musical Director), included Glenn Mead (Drums), Mary Toft (Reed 1) and Pam Ambrose (Reed 2). The volume was perfect and complemented the songs rather than overpowering them, well done!
Set and Staging were under the watchful eye of Kevin Donno (Stage Manager). The set provided a good backdrop for all the many comings and goings. Harrison Aston-Jobin Head of Lighting was great throughout. Sound in the capable hands of Kane Crocker was great. Susie Finlay Head of Costumes did an outstanding job and they really did enhance the show.
Thank you so much for inviting me and for your warm welcome.
I would like to make ‘special mention’ of two specific areas of this show which I thought had many highlights… choreography was amazing throughout. Cleverly devised, played to the strengths of this young cast, totally enhanced the show, well done Denyse great job. Vocals… Young Expressions have always been blessed with some outstanding young vocalists. If I may, let me highlight just a few… ‘I know it’s today’ sung by Alice Finlay (young Fiona), Sophie Finlay (teen Fiona) & Imogen George (Fiona)… well done. ‘Forever’ was the highlight for me… sung by Grace Kelly as The Dragon. Grace has a lovely voice and sang this to perfection. Finally, the finale song ‘I’m a Believer’… sung, danced and acted by the entire cast, amazing and a fitting end.
The Band: under the guidance of Ian Southgate (Musical Director), included Glenn Mead (Drums), Mary Toft (Reed 1) and Pam Ambrose (Reed 2). The volume was perfect and complemented the songs rather than overpowering them, well done!
Set and Staging were under the watchful eye of Kevin Donno (Stage Manager). The set provided a good backdrop for all the many comings and goings. Harrison Aston-Jobin Head of Lighting was great throughout. Sound in the capable hands of Kane Crocker was great. Susie Finlay Head of Costumes did an outstanding job and they really did enhance the show.
Thank you so much for inviting me and for your warm welcome.
