Thanks to the New Theatre, Cardiff for inviting us along to see the show in exchange for this review.
Shrek is another fantastic musical by Cardiff-based production company Orbit, whose performances never fail to impress or entertain.
Described as an amateur company, you wouldn’t know it, as Orbit has track record in successful theatre performances, with their first, Oliver, in 1969. Shrek will be their 108th production.
[aoa id=”1″]Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical will have you both laughing and singing. We couldn’t help but join in, especially when the famous ‘I’m a Believer’ song rang out. Fair play to Orbit’s orchestra led by musical director Rob Thorne Jr, they really added to atmosphere and helped bring Shrek alive.[/aoa]
First hitting our screens in 2001, the computer-animated film Shrek has been globally successful, with the ogre universally recognisable by all. Shrek The Musical brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there’s more to the story than meets the ears.
“Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek…” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude, and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there’s one on hand…and his name is Shrek.
We couldn’t write this review without giving a special mention to Donkey (Mat Hole) and Lord Farquaad (Lewis Cook), who had us in stitches throughout. Personally, Donkey was my favourite of all, Mat was extremely charismatic and took to the role so naturally. Guest appearances from Pinocchio and the Gingerbread Man (aka ginge) really stood out, even though they weren’t part of the main storyline, their characters added ‘something magical’. The singing was exceptional from all, faultless, especially Princess Fiona (Lizzie Burgess) who wowed the audience.
It wasn’t just the performers that impressed. Orbit’s live performance was supported by students from Coleg y Cymoedd, who worked tirelessly to create an array of costumes and props. The learners, who study at the college’s Nantgarw campus, worked closely with the production team, as well as the cast who have been attended regular fittings.
Overall, a brilliant rendition that provides all round family entertainment at an affordable price.
Shrek the musical can be seen in The New Theatre in Cardiff until Sunday 2nd June. Tickets are available from the Box Office on (029) 2087 8889 and here.
