Shrek: It Takes A Village
The Show
Shrek The Musical
Town Hall Productions and Campbellsville University
at the Russ Mobley Theater (1 University Drive)
Photo by Renee R. Dobson
"Can I just say? That was incredible!"
This production of Shrek (directed by Jason Garrett with choreography and music direction from Cassie Lucas) will call forth your attention and dedication as a knight beckons his noble steed to accompany him on his quest. Many hands join together to bring us a musical that is classic (and unclassy!), magical, touching, and entertaining throughout. In some shows there comes a moment where things move along too slowly and the audience may get momentarily bored. In Shrek, that moment never comes. From start to finish, this show will have you laughing, cheering, clapping, and gagging on the fumes.
Photos by Renee R. Dobson
They Go Together Like Graham Crackers, Squirrel Gizzards, and Mulch
The actors that play Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey are simply unforgettable. Much like a warm batch of Snothers, the trio of pals meld together to create fresh and funny on-stage chemistry. Alia McClendon as Donkey has terrific comedic timing and naturally hilarious inflections that are heightened by her interactions with her pals. Jenny Kawa's Fiona does not disappoint. She is as bubbly and quirky as one would expect from Fiona, while putting her own spin on the character, finding new motivations and line deliveries that are unique to Kawa. Leading man Marcus Stanfield is a natural Shrek. This talented actor peals back the many ogre layers to capture our devotion through authentic story-telling that encompasses humor, love, denial, sorrow, and ultimately commitment to those who share in his story. Hmmm... Our Shrek seems to be quite prince-like after all.
Other notable players are Singrid Jennings as the Suger Plum Fairy/Gingy, Sarah Durham as the Wicked Witch, Emma Peterson as Pinocchio, and Deja Thompson, whose vocals as Dragon are superhuman. Although I found Daniel Bannister as Farquaad to be sometimes too understated, he makes up for it every time he opens his mouth to sing. I could go on about this large and talented cast. Come see the show for yourself and find your favorites! There are many characters and moments to enjoy for all.
Photos by Renee R. Dobson
The Dragon's In The Details
So. Many. Details. If this show were to run for a month straight I'm sure there would still be final touches finding their way onto the stage by the end of July. Technical director Starr Garrett muses that "there are more lighting cues in the opening sequence of Shrek than there were in this entire season." Altogether, the crew consists of 21 people including those backstage and in the booth. Onstage, we see many "popcorn" moments that are here then gone. This often involves props that are only used once, but are important to the integrity of the story in all its detailed and humorous glory. The list is extensive, but I will give you some key words to watch for!
And many more wonderful details, I'm sure!
Photo by Renee R. Dobson
To be an Ogre, there are just a few details that I would have liked to see fall into place:
-Pinocchio's nose being short once again during the Freak Flag scene
-Shrek planting his feet for ballads
-accurate pitches and harmonies (most of the time the vocals were great!)
-use of a mixed resonance for Fiona in her middle range
-Blocking in "Make a Move" that doesn't have Donkey staged directly in front of Fiona and Shrek
It's Not Easy Being Green
According to Starr Garrett, the most challenging aspect of the entire show is Fiona's transformation. I won't give away the secret, but watch closely and see if you can figure out how this magical moment was made possible!
All in all, Director Jason Garrett and his dedicated team of crew and cast have done an incredible job in coming together to warm our hearts and make us laugh hysterically. So go! Go! Get your tickets and embark on this flatulent journey!
Photo by Renee R. Dobson
See The Show
Friday June 30 @ 7pm
Saturday July 1 @ 7pm
Sunday July 2 @ 2:30pm
Monday July 3 @ 7pm
Tuesday July 4th @ 6pm
For tickets, call 270-789-5266 or visit campbellsville.edu/theater
