Reviewed by Linda Curtain
My granddaughter and I were delighted to have the chance to review ‘Shrek the Musical’ at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth last evening. Having previously seen this show in 2015, we were very excited to be able to see it again – especially as Lord Farquaad is being played by local actor Samuel Holmes who we have known for many years via the theatre network in Plymouth.
The Theatre Royal is a great venue for this type of family production. With easy access, plentiful parking and a convenient location on the main Royal Parade, arriving by bus or car is problem free. You are always welcomed and assisted by helpful front of house staff on your arrival – a great start to your night out.
On arriving, the atmosphere in the foyer was buzzing with excitement and anticipation as groups of people congregated in the bars and coffee shop. Numerous pairs of Shrek ears could be seen on adults, children and even the staff!
I’m sure everyone is familiar with Shrek as a film, but the adaptation to stage has been wonderfully done adding extra magic to the story. The basic storyline is about a lonely, loveable ogre whose swamp is invaded by various story-tale characters sent there by Lord Farquaad. In order to reclaim his swamp Shrek has to rescue Princess Fiona from the locked tower which is guarded by a fierce dragon. Lord Farquaad wants to marry Fiona and become King of Duloc. Aided by his donkey friend, Shrek rises to the challenge with unexpected results!
From the wonderful opening scene of a talking storybook to the sing-song finale, this production certainly entertained the audience in Plymouth last evening. The only part I thought could have been different was the tower scene – It didn’t seem to give the impression of how long Fiona had be captured there or how large and difficult to access the tower actually was.
Steffan Harri was amazing as the Scottish Ogre Shrek with a great accent and endless energy. Laura Main was a delightful Fiona and Marcus Ayton portrayed the popular character Donkey with great facial expression and attitude. And then to Lord Farquaad – played by local Plymouth actor Samuel Holmes. Samuel played the perfect Lord Farquaad with quick humour and great mobility around the stage on his knees! His comic timing was brilliant as was his interaction with the audience and other cast members.
All the cast members were enthusiastic with great musical numbers and dance routines. The Pied Pipers tap dancing rats were fantastic. There were some amazing special effects used and the puppeteers used the puppets to great effect – the dragon was spectacular!
Overall a magical, fun-filled family show.
Shrek is at the Theatre Royal Plymouth until 24th November so go along for a great night out.
Rating: 4.5/5
Tickets cost from £18 to £48 (booking fees may apply).
Shrek the Musical is at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth from 13-24 November 2018, for more information or to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com or call the box office on 01752 267222.
Theatre Royal Plymouth, Royal Parade, Plymouth, PL1 2TR | 01752 267222
