Performing arts students at Crescent Height High School perform Shrek: The Musical in the school's theatre during the show's opening night Wednesday. Tickets are still available for upcoming performances and can be purchased at the door.--NEWS PHOTOS BRENDAN MILLER
bmiller@medicinehatnews.com
The tale of a grumpy green ogre who emerges from the solitude of his swamp to discover friendship and true love, has been brought back to life by performing arts students at Crescent Heights High School as they present Dreamworks Theatrical’s Shrek: The Musical.
The makeover of the fairytale favourite was filled with wonderful singing from numerous student performers, and chemistry to match – highlighted with standout performances and sprinkled with authentic comedic moments that only high school students can pull off so effortlessly – all under the live sounds of some of the Hat’s most talented musicians.
The vocal talent, paired with the animated background and transitional music, created a truly immersive journey through the fairy tale land of Duloc, where Shrek encounters his trusted friend Donkey as well as Lord Farquaad, the Dragon and Princess Fiona, among several other colourful characters who add depth to the fantasy world.
With a hardy voice and Scottish accent, Grade 11 actor Wyatt Harrington flawlessly transforms into the main character of Shrek. Known for being antisocial with a kind heart, the overweight green ogre is properly captured by Harrington, who delivers a gruff performance perfectly dotted with the real feelings of love he develops for Princess Fiona.
Harrington’s vocal performance, like much of the cast, was astonishing throughout the performance while being able to keep Shrek’s iconic accent present – highlighted on several occasions, including in the score, “Who I’d Be.”
Harrington’s portrayal could not have been more perfectly accompanied than what was provided by Grade 11 actress Hana Fenwick, whose singing voice in her performance of Princess Fiona was powerful enough to steal the show.
From her part in a trio performance with younger versions of her character in “I know It’s Today,” to the final “Beautiful Ain’t Always Pretty,” Fenwick’s voice control was outstanding, showcasing her wide vocal range hitting extremely low and high keys.
Along with their vocal talent, Harrington and Fenwick brought to life Shrek’s feelings and Princess Fiona’s struggles, showcasing wonderful chemistry as their characters’ relationships developed throughout. Fenwich, particularly, had a few memorable comedic moments that had the sold-out audience laughing out loud.
And there are plenty of laughs to be had, especially with Shrek’s trusted friend and comedic highlight of the show, Donkey, performed by Grade 11 actor Jaxen Bouman, who gave a realistic performance of Shrek’s loud mouthed and loyal sidekick.
Throughout his performance, Bouman was able to read the audience and offer perfect comedic timing on both jokes and movements, subtle or not, leaving an impression of true animation and fairytale – not a student actor in costume.
An example of well-paired costume design and acting comes in Grade 10 Gibson Roset, who plays Lord Farquaad, a very short and power hungry character. Roset mixed his talented singing voice with the dexterity to perform (we think) on his knees to create the illusion of being short and truly talented.
Another truly talented Grade 10 performance came through Addison Rittwage, who plays the Dragon. With limited stage time Rittwage able to showcase a powerful raspy singing voice and was a memorable part of the show.
The entire production, from choreography to music to lighting, feels realistic and well-timed, a true accomplishment for a high school production. The use of a background projector mixed with simple set design keeps the story through the land of Duloc moving at an enjoyable pace.
And to top it off, the performance offers several musical scores to showcase the immense talent – at times more than 40 students were on the stage – Crescent Heights boasts. Deservedly, all received a standing ovation for their opening night effort.
The next performance of Shrek: The Musical in the Crescent Heights High School theatre runs Saturday, then next week the show runs nightly from Feb. 4-8. Showtimes are at 7 p.m., and tickets for all performances are still available.
