BWW Reviews: CM PAC's SHREK, THE MUSICAL
Shrek, The Musical is certainly a fun night at the theatre. The cast at Oakdale's Creative Ministries Performing Arts Center (CM PAC) is hysterical, the costumes are unbelievably creative, and the David Lindsay - Abaire story will tug at your heart and make you smile.
Running through January 5th, this PatRick Grossman directed incarnation is certainly one for the books. This is one of the biggest shows CM has produced and they pulled it off wonderfully. For the record, Mr. Grossman also does the Choreography, Costumes, and Set design. What is also apparent is how well they interpreted the familiar Dreamworks Animation motion picture. This is including a spot on portrayal of all of the fairy tale characters.
Leading the cast as the big, green, supposed-to-be mean ogre is Greg Padden - alternating the role with Michael Goodwin. Shrek puts forth a mean demeanor but he certainly has a heart. This including finding common ground with the lovely Princess Fiona (Baily Whitney). Shrek's costume was without doubt one of the most elaborate I've seen at CM. All of the costumes in this production are really wonderful as NY's 529 College Saving Program is an additional financial backer.
Indeed another highlight is Steve Cottonaro's hilarious showing of Lord Farquaad, the evil "little" man trying to evict Shrek from his "happy" swamp abode. The CM vet received roars of laughter throughout the production; more so for his performance of "What's Up, Duloc" in Act One.
In addition to the wonderful costumes and talented cast, the set was also superb. What is great for the younger audience is that there were clear, clean, concise set changes/switches. There was no this side of the stage is "this" and the other side of the stage is "that" which could come off as confusing for younger/less experienced audience members.
And so without question CM PAC has another hit on their hands with Shrek, The Musical. There are very minor "adult moments", but the kids in the audience seem enthralled at a live show of their favorite character. And the best part... you don't have to go "far, far away" to see it!
Shrek, The Musical is presented by CM PAC of Oakdale, Long Island through January 5th. Music by Jeanine Tesori, Book & Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire, Direction & Choreography & Costumes & Set Design by PatRick Grossman, Musical Direction by John Farrell, Makeup by Lisa Kerr & Jeff Livingston, Puppet Design & Construction by Frank Longo & Heather Van Velsor, Sound Design by Brianne Boyd, Stage Management by Amanda Wenchel, Asst. Stage Manager is Pam Parker, Lighting Design by Alison Weinberger. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 218-2810 or visit cmpac.com.
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