Reviewed by our new author, Matthew Leal.
Valley Youth Theatre’s production of Shrek was magical and made me a believer that this
company had inconceivable levels of talent and professionalism. Shrek the Musical is the
story of an ogre learning that not every story is like a fairy tale. Accompanied by a witty and
loveable donkey and a fierce but optimistic princess, Shrek learns what it means to be a
hero by taking down a small but imposing threat and saving a whole gaggle of enchanted
outcasts. With a comedic book and contemporary, though referential, musical numbers,
Shrek lends its story to a wide variety of audience members.
Erick Xavier Resendiz Jr. was a perfect leading man. For a character who wants no
attention from anybody, he pulls focus with soaring vocals and great characterization. He
adds a real vulnerability to the role that plays well with the show’s emotional scenes.
Lucy Glow shines as a true triple threat as Princess Fiona. Her perfect vocal technique,
impressive tap dancing, and smart comedic choices made her the perfect comical yet
charismatic princess.
Jayvin Sumler’s Donkey was delightful to watch throughout the show. With incredible
energy and hilarious mannerisms, he charms his way straight into the audience’s heart,
creating a collective joy whenever he speaks a line.
Shane Sedivy as Lord Farquaad was devilishly captivating with his chaotic personality and
assertive voice. Despite having a short stature throughout the show, his stage presence
was huge and made him the perfect lovable villain.
Ra’Jihya Givens stole the show as soon as she opened her mouth. Her voice commands
your attention during “Forever,” and her movement is cohesive with the amazing puppetry,
creating a beautiful visual harmony.
These actors previously highlighted were backed by an extremely strong ensemble
featuring excellent singers and terrific dancers. Whether they were fairytale creatures,
citizens of Duloc, or a pack of show-stopping rats, the ensemble owned the stage. The
entire cast’s comedic language was bold and creative, spotlighting many unique moments.
The technical elements were spectacular, allowing the production to use the Herberger
Theater Center to its full potential. With a clearly well-rehearsed live orchestra conducted by
Tristan Peterson-Steinert, beautiful lighting designs by Nathaniel White, and inventive set
design by Paul Bridgeman. The puppeteering in this show was magical, from the snarkiness
of Shea Levine’s Gingy to the flirtiness of Morgan James with the Dragon. The costume
design by Karol Cooper was unified through all the characters, and the hair and makeup
designs by Amelia Walsh were a great compliment to them.
The cast clearly had great direction from Matthew Wiener, who made sure no detail was left
unthought of. Similar to the bold and creative choreography by Lauran Stanis that showed
off the company’s skills and the high overall production value of the show.