BWW Reviews: Spectacular, Magical SHREK

Wow!

The magic of the "Shrek" movies is phenomenally captured in this thrilling theatrical experience which will delight children and adults alike.  The brilliance of Shrek the Musical is creative staging with a constant flow of original techniques bring Shrek and his fairy-tale friends to the stage.  Overflowing with fun, laughs and incredible costumes, this musical surpassed all expectations.

Shrek The Musical follows the same plot as the 2001 American animated comedy film, Shrek, about a big, stinky ogre with an even bigger heart.   The thick of the plot begins when short statured Lord Farquaad banishes all magical creatures to Shrek's swap outside the Kingdom of Duloc.  In order to restore privacy to his beloved swamp, Shrek agrees to rescue the Princess Fiona from a dragon-guarded tower so Farquaad can marry a princess and become a real King.  When Shrek comes to Fiona's rescue, she is disappointed her hero is not the man of her dreams.  She is eager to return to Duloc to marry Lord Farquaad for only the kiss of her true love can break her secret curse. 

Shrek The Musical is a magical, visual spectacle with the staging and costuming stealing the show.  Its obvious why the show took home Drama Desk Awards for both set and costume design by Tim Hatley (Private Lives, Monty Python's Spamalot) who also created all the puppets.  One of the most impressive components is the fanciful, large dragon puppet that fills the stage with lifelike movement.  I also enjoyed the parade of rats created by dancing feet beneath a lowered stage curtain and the puppet creation of the Gingerbread Man.

The most impressive costume belongs to David F.M. Vaughn as Lord Farquaad.  The ingenious design places 6'2" Vaughn on his knees for the entire show to create the short statue of his character.  The effect is impressive and Vaughn pulls it off with unbelievable mobility and dancing capabilities from his knees.  Vaughn (a member of the original Broadway company) also delivers an exceptional performance as the show's arrogant villain with commanding stage presence.  Farquaad's first entrance was also one of my favorite moments in the show with the dark, strong music leading up to the tiny man in fizzled light.

Other impressive costuming feats include Pinocchio's nose which grows and that of Shrek's friend, Donkey played by Alan Mingo, Jr. (The Little Mermaid (Sebastian), Rent (Tom Collins)).  Mingo sells his costume as well with galloped, discrete movements on his toes creating the hunched legs of a donkey.  The way he exposes his teeth also perfectly captures the essence of Donkey from the Shrek movies and Mingo has Donkey's unequivocal enthusiasm and voice down perfectly.

As the show's hero, Eric Petersen also has Shrek's voice perfected to the point you would think Mike Myers is doing a voice over.  Petersen, who was a Shrek standby on Broadway, has a powerful voice and delivers a moving rendition of "Build Me a Wall".  He brings the lovable protagonist to life creating a character with as many layers as Shrek's onion.

With so many memorable characters around her, Haven Burton's portrayal of Princess Fiona sometimes feels understated and too controlled, most often during song.  During "I Know It's Today" she is overshadowed by the actresses who play the younger versions of Fiona. 

As seven-year-old Fiona, Scarlett Diaz is absolutely exceptional.  Making her professional debut, Diaz sings with diction and tone maturity beyond her years.  As the teenage Fiona, Sarah Peak (who also plays the Ugly Duckling) sparkles.  You can sense her anticipation and excitement as she waits to be rescued and can see the emotion in her eyes all the way from the Mezzanine.

Burton (who played Gingy in Shrek on Broadway, Legally Blonde (Margot), Rent (Maureen)) does have many successful, comedic moments especially during "Morning Person" where her full charisma is finally unleashed.  She also has a beautiful duet with Petersen during "Who I'd Be" ending Act 1.

The lyrics from Shrek The Musical are far more memorable than the melodies and the book is stronger than the score.  Packed with fairy tale puns and clever wit, the show also entertains adults with subtle grown-up humor while remaining kid-friendly.  This is an excellent show for the family and the new 7:30 curtain time during weekdays at the Hobby Center will make it even easier to introduce your kids to theatre.  Note that if you do bring your kids they're probably going to want a pair of Shrek ears that most kids in the audience seemed to be wearing after intermission. 

Just as the Shrek movies are filled with pop-culture reference, Shrek The Musical contains subtle nods to other Broadway shows.  During the performance I spotted five musical references but I know there are many more.  Which ones did you catch?

Shrek The Musical was one of the best well-rounded productions I have ever seen and this is one national tour you don't want to pass up.  If you do go see the show make sure you stay for all the surprises in "I'm a Believer" after the curtain call.

Shrek The Musical plays at The Hobby Center from October 19-31.  Tickets are available at www.broadwayacrossamerica.com/Houston or by calling 800-982-ARTS (2787).  Groups of 10 or more should call (888) 451-5986 or e-mail Houston.groups@broadwayacrossamerica.com.

PHOTO CREDIT: ©2010 DreamWorks Theatricals (Joan Marcus)

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