Shrek the Musical Exceeds Expectations Early On
On Sept. 7 the Lewiston Civic Theatre debuted a tale of an ogre who found true love. The story, based upon the DreamWorks movie Shrek, followed the life of Shrek, an ogre, on his quest to rescue a princess in order to take back his swamp from Lord Farquad. Along the way he becomes best friends with Donkey and falls in love with the princess, Fiona. True love’s kiss ends the story as Fiona transforms into an ogre and lives happily with Shrek at the swamp.
After just a few performances the show became a huge success, causing extra performances to be added on Saturdays. Still, Shrek the Musical quickly sold out for each of its performances, according to actors in the play.
The musical included lovable characters, intricate sets and well delivered music, all of which made the show enjoyable and intriguing to watch. In at least one performance the audience responded audibly in reaction to many humorous scenes.
The play featured Austin Mason as Shrek, Amanda Klempal as Fiona and Ethan Smith as Donkey, as well as many Lewiston High School students including sophomores, Austin Rose as a pig and Ruby Moree with various ensemble parts; juniors, Marshall Fisher as Pinocchio and Maddy Corbitt as the Ugly Duckling; and seniors, Aiden Walsh as the Captain of the Guard, Shay Bonner with various ensemble parts and Emily Browne as a part of the stage crew.
Only few complaints surfaced. The microphones went out a few times. Also, by no fault of the cast, children talking in the audience make it hard, at times, to hear. However, Shrek the Musical proved worthy of four and a half stars.