BWW Reviews: SHREK THE MUSICAL at The Growing Stage is Sure to Delight

If you aren't familiar with The Growing Stage, The Children's Theatre of New Jersey, you should be. Shrek The Musical is playing through October 27th at the charming, historic Palace Theater located at 7 Ledgewood Avenue in Netcong.

Directed by Stephen L. Fredericks, with musical direction by Laura Petrie and choreography by Jillian Petrie, Shrek the Musical will surely please audiences of all ages. Elaborate costuming and creative, colorful sets compliment the clever staging.

We attended their final dress rehearsal before the opening. The abundantly talented cast made the evening performance pure pleasure; professional equity actors and a wonderful group of performers including youngsters are the fairy tale characters that make this show happen.

Tommy J. Dose as Shrek flawlessly captures his role as the unlikely hero who also deals with the often annoying, yet comical antics of his side-kick, Donkey, perfectly played by Brandon Lavon Hightower. The role of Fiona, played by Emily Cara Portune is wonderful; a princess that the Growing Stage audiences who see Shrek The Musical will long remember.

The vocalists in this show are stand-outs. From enchanting full company numbers to solos, the company's performance delivers musical delights. In the first act, I know it's Today is beautifully performed by Fiona as a child, as a teen, and as an adult; this trio is very moving.

The Growing Stage is not only a theater for children but for people who are young at heart. And, Shrek The Musical is a production not to be missed.

To learn more about The Growing Stage, The Children's Theater of New Jersey or to place your reservation for Shrek the Musical and other upcoming performances, contact their box office at 973-347-4946, visit their web site at www.growingstage.com or e-mail at boxoffice@growingstage.com. Group rates and birthday party packages are available.