×

‘Shrek Jr.’ brings beautiful world to stage

The cast of “Dreamworks Shrek the Musical Jr.” on stage at the Forest Roberts Theater at Northern Michigan University. The production began Thursday and continues through Sunday. (Courtesy photo)

Everyone’s favorite ogre will grace the stage this weekend as the Forest Roberts Theater transforms into a big, bright, beautiful world for “Dreamworks Shrek the Musical Jr.” performed by the Superior Arts Youth Theater.

The musical follows the story of an ogre named Shrek (Asa Naigus) who has been shunned by the rest of the world for being unique. He comfortably claims a swamp as his home when an abundance of misfit fairytales impede on his land after being evicted from the kingdom of Duloc for their differences.

In order for Shrek to regain his desired isolation, he is asked to speak with Lord Farquaad (Braeden Francisco), the ruler of Duloc, who, in exchange for his land, sends him on the journey to save Princess Fiona (Maren Doughty) from her lava-surrounded tower. Shrek finds companionship along the way with a lovably annoying Donkey (Canyon Medina). Together they attempt to save Fiona from the tower and the clutches of a song-belting dragon (Kendyl Dahlstrom).

Naigus and Doughty, as young as they are, really bring their characters to life. With solid vocals and expressions, it is enjoyable to watch their characters interact as Shrek and Fiona’s relationship progress throughout the musical. Naigus, especially, shines in this role as he captures the bare innocence and hilarity that the ogre possesses.

Canyon Medina does a thoroughly entertaining job of portraying the well-known role of Donkey. His comedic timing and inflection is beyond his years and he will keep you laughing throughout the entire production. Not only is Kendyl Dahlstrom (Dragon) visually one of the most stunning pieces of the production, but she will also blow you away with her fire-breathing powers AND her intense vocals. You’ll be in for a not-so-big surprise when Braeden Francisco enters the story with his well-played, small-minded (pun intended) portrayal of Lord Farquaad.

“Shrek Jr.” is a heavily ensemble reliant musical and the cast of over 60 children eighth grade and under do a wonderful job of bringing the fairy tale to life. From Hansel and Gretel to the Three Little Pigs, the ensemble really captures the characteristics of many well-known fairytales we all know and love.

Some standout performers include: Reya Ghiardi as Young Fiona, Roenak Ghiardi as Pinocchio, Eridinn Nayback as the Wicked Witch, Marin Johnson as Peter Pan, and Carley Palomaki as the sassy and lovable Gingy.

Under the superb direction of Jalina McClain (with Nicholas Conroy and Caitlin Palomaki’s assistance), the Superior Arts Youth Theater continuously exceeds expectations in the realm of set (Steve McClain) and costumes (Suzanne Shahbazi), and to no one’s surprise Jill Grundstrom and Taylor Koski do another marvelous job with choreography- (did I mention there are tap dancing mice?)

Overall, the musical was extremely entertaining and enjoyable. The cast of Shrek Jr. really understands how to keep your attention, tell their story, and let their Freak Flags Fly. This musical runs through Saturday at 7 p.m. with matinee performances at 1p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Forest Roberts Theater.

Tickets are available at all EZ ticket outlets for $15 general admission and $9 children/students (with an additional $2 door fee).

Eliisa Gladwell is a local actress and director.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today