I have a confession... I have never seen the animated film of Shrek, not have I ever read the William Steig children's book of the same name. I have however, seen countless productions of the Musical, and, being tipped off that Blackpool Operatic Players were a professional society in all but name, I simply had to go along and see for myself!
The set, the costumes, the ambience, an imaginative and creative lighting design, and indeed a 13-piece orchestra in the pit, all came together playing their parts to aid and support this talented cast tell their story. In fact, Chris Andrews's musical direction must be congratulated and recognised here on two counts. First, most of the songs this evening were taken just a might slower than I have heard them previously and this was most definitely to the society's advantage as the lyrics were clearer and everyone's diction impeccable, meaning that, for the first time ever, I heard and understood every single lyric in every single song this evening, and the show was all the more enjoyable for being able to do so! Second, the pit band sounded excellent. One of the most professionally sounding bands I have heard in a long time. Bravo.
Directed by Neil Townsend, the characters were brought to life superbly, with some lovely cameos which never stole a principal's thunder, and good use of the space, and feel for the comedic rhythms of this show was brought to bear at all times. I must admit I balked a little at seeing Thelonius's massive cod-piece, but since this 'fun' was done so naively and matter-of-fact, the joke was accepted, and we all (children included) enjoyed laughing at this good-natured joke.
Ian Fox was superb as Shrek, hitting the character square on the button, and his mellowing and developing relationship with Fiona was a delight to watch. Princess Fiona was played by Eden Kippax, and again, had her characterisation off to a tee. Frazer Mundy was impeccable as the Donkey with sass and attitude, whilst Callum Morley's top-half was superb! (kudos to any actor willing to walk on their knees continuously). These four skilled and most watchable performers were supported by many other smaller roles, and the chorus / ensemble singing (George Baldwin) proved to be a highlight of the show.
One thing however, which this evening, did not work well. The Stage Management team were constantly on and off stage, even when a scene was being played out in front of them. Arms and hands could be seen each time the tree curtain was used trying desperately to close it. Stage hands were visible behind the sunflower hills setting the bridge; etc etc.... it was sadly most distracting and lowered the overall standard of an otherwise first-class production. This was opening night though, and so hopefully, most of these faux-pas can be rectified for future evenings.
Blackpool Operatic Players are indeed everything I had been expecting and more. A fabulously uplifting and fun show - which all the children around me followed, laughed along with and enjoyed from, start to finish! Hugely enjoyable and I look forward to being able to catch their next show, 'Singin' In The Rain' at the Opera House next March!
Reviewer - Matthew Dougall
on - 5.4.23
I totally agree about the band , they were superb . The actor who played Shrek was excellent in his performance . However Princess Fiona her singing was deafening , far too loud . The costumes were amazing . I don’t think I’d recommend this show , it went on for too long and children all around me were getting bored and some of them left early .
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