BWW Reviews: Cute and Funny Production of SHREK THE MUSICAL at The Muny

The original animated film Shrek was a kind of adult fairytale, though it was obviously aimed squarely at the youth market as well, successfully spawning a franchise with sequels and merchandising galore. So, it should come as no surprise that Dreamworks would opt to try their luck on stage with a musical version of their blockbuster hit. Happily, like the original, it's a cute and amusing production that will play equally well to children and their parents, who will certainly appreciate some of the more grown-up humor. Jeanine Tesori's score serves the play well, and is undeniably tuneful in execution, but the real treat here is David Lindsay-Abaire's clever book and lyrics, which peppers the dialogue and songs with a remarkable amount of wit. The current production of Shrek The Musical, which is playing at The Muny at Forest Park, is a cleverly mounted and thoroughly enjoyable show.

The plot is pretty much the same as the movie with the evil, but miniscule, Lord Farquaad banishing all the fairytale characters from the kingdom, and forcing them to take up residence in a swamp. But that swamp just happens to be the home of Shrek the ogre. He decides to pay Farquaad a visit and, by utilizing his unique talents and "charms", take back ownership of his land. Along the way he meets up with a loquacious donkey who aids him in his efforts.

Farquaad, who has eyes for the imprisoned Princess Fiona, barters a deal whereby Shrek will rescue the Princess in exchange for the return of his swamp land. Keep in mind that the tower is surrounded by molten lava and guarded by a dragon. If you've seen the film then you know that Shrek saves Fiona and that a spark of romance blossoms between the pair even though they appear to be complete opposites. But, you have to remember that the message that's central to this tale is all about accepting one another for what we are, not how we appear.

Stephen Wallem does fine work leading the cast as Shrek, and he conjures up the requirEd Scottish brogue with aplomb. He's nicely paired with Michael James Scott as the Donkey, who brings soulful vocals and sassy attitude to the part in equal measure. Julia Murney is a fiesty Fiona, and she acquits herself well vocally throughout, and Rob McClure is especially gleeful in his menace as the diminutive Lord Farquaad. The vocal talents of Natalie Venetia Belcon give the Dragon a voice that's able to rock the house during the rollicking number "Forever".

Director John Tartaglia keeps the tone light and the action moving at a brisk pace, with fairly seamless transitions between scenes. Their efforts are enhanced by Vince Pesce's playful choreography, Steve Gilliam's eye-popping scenic design, Nathan Sheuer's imaginative lighting, Seth Jackson's clever projections, and Rick Bertone's lively musical direction.

Shrek The Musical continues at the The Muny at Forest Park through June 30, 2013.

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