Photo by Matt Franklin
Robert Napier as Donkey and Wes Bridges as Shrek.
Opening night for Shrek: The Musical at The Muni, directed by LaDonna Wilson, had the Muni parking lot filled for the first time this summer. More than 1,400 tickets were sold, and it’s not surprising as to why – in an otherwise adult-themed show lineup, Shrek: The Musical stands out as a wholesome but funny introduction to theater for young kids. It was so packed that one reviewer drove away in a panic, but then thought better of it and turned back to arrive just as it began.
Shrek: The Musical is based off the 2001 global phenomenon franchise of DreamWorks movie of the same name, originally inspired by William Steig’s 1990 picture book, Shrek!, a story about a repulsive but kind hearted ogre. Though the musical remains true to the movie’s basic plot, it also delves into both Shrek and Princess Fiona’s backstories to help the audience better relate to their characters. The stage show is also a celebration of misfits – weaving in themes of self-acceptance, unlikely friendships and the courage to challenge stereotypes and bigoted, tiny dictators.
The story begins as Shrek is cast out by his parents at 7 years old because he’s a hideous beast. The world is no less cruel to him as he’s chased by townsfolk with pitchforks and fire, so he makes his home in a swamp. He’s happy there until a band of homeless, fairy-tale creatures arrive demanding he help them overthrow the evil dwarf dictator, Lord Farquaad. Along the way he meets a hyperactive donkey (played delightfully by Robert Napier), a fire-breathing dragon in love and the beautiful Princess Fiona, who ends up catching feelings for him during a fart contest.
The role of Shrek is impressively handled by Wes Bridges, who never falters in his characterization and whose songs are all professionally delivered. Bridges’ Scottish ogre accent is so on-the-nose and different than his own voice that audience members were questioning if it were really him (it is). He felt it was the most difficult part of his process.
“I actually have a Scottish friend in town and worked with him to find this happy medium on my accent that was appropriate without being too cartoony,” said Bridges.
Photo by Matt Franklin
Aleah Cross as Princess Fiona
Aleah Cross brings to life a feisty and bubbly Fiona with a real animated princess quality. Her vocals are beautiful and her smile infectious. The number/rat-tap, “Morning Person” deserves a shout-out as the choreography was the best in the show and the song showcased Cross’ true star power.
Lord Farquaad is sure to be an audience favorite. He’s portrayed hilariously (and entirely on his knees) by Jakob Hankins, who feels right at home as an eccentric diva with a bob.
“I get all these beautiful costumes and I’m onstage for, like, 15 minutes. It’s such a princess role – I love it,” said Hankins.
Photo by Matt Franklin
Jakob Hankins as Lord Farquaad torturing Gingy as voiced by Macy Mosley, surrounded by his guards.
Gabe Karr’s Pinocchio hits some impressive high notes and the Pied Piper/ Blue Fairy as played by Mickey McNaughton manages to shine even in small doses. The Gingy and Dragon puppet and puppeteering are both epic under Karr’s direction with Rebecca Coakley, Jordan Andrews and Camy Broderick doing some formidable heavy lifting. The Dragon’s vocals are superb as belted out by Christina Brewer, and Gingy, played wonderfully by Macy Mosley, is hysterical with powerhouse solo lines.
There are some technical pieces of the show that felt inconsistent. Though the sets are ambitious and plentiful, they lack a cohesive palette on color, style and size – (my kingdom for a tree-top!). The costumes range from impressive, Broadway-approved pieces such as Farquaad’s glittering get-up to what appear as used Halloween regalia on some of the fairy-tale creatures. And the orchestra is nearly impossible to hear, regardless of audience seat.
Children, however, did not, and will not care about these specific theatrical elements. Every time a new, beloved character graces the stage, claps and shrieks of excitement are heard from the audience’s youngest members. One child continuously whispered, “dooonkeeeey,” spellbound for the entirety of every scene Napier appeared in.
That’s what this show is all about anyway – a jubilant, inclusive and family-friendly celebration of the wacky quirks in everyone and everything. It plays out as a fully interactive theatrical experience, fueled by the delighted cheers of a packed house and littles jazzed up on candy, watching their favorite characters come to life past their bedtimes. Bring the kids out to see Shrek: The Musical; they’ll be enchanted.
Shrek: The Musical continues
its run at The Muni Aug. 6-9. Performances start at 8:30 p.m. and tickets are
available at TheMuni.org or at The Muni box office beginning 90 minutes before
each performance.