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This version of 'Shrek' breaks the mould

Beloved ogre tale plays at the Georgian Theatre January 27
Arianna Conidi as Princess Fiona
Arianna Conidi as Princess Fiona. Photo courtesy of The Melody in Me

Everyone in this world is owed some respect, no matter how ungainly, anti-social, or even ornery, they may be. Such is the message of William Steig’s 1990 book Shrek, made into a franchise of phenomenally successful animated films voiced by Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz.

Next weekend, a bunch of young all-stars (ages 10-18) are getting their game on to play Shrek the Musical Jr. at Georgian Theatre, for two performances. This musical version of the ogre-in-his-swamp tale is a production of The Melody In Me Academy of Music and Performing Arts.

Arianna Conidi proudly portrays Princess Fiona (played in the movies by Diaz), and tells BarrieToday she is won over by the message of acceptance it preaches.

“Shrek doesn’t believe he would ever be accepted for who he is, so he stays on his swamp and keeps to himself. The story really proves that the only way to discover who you are is to put yourself out in the world!”

The ogre finds himself surrounded by all these fairy tale characters, forced out of the world of “Far-Far-Away” and toward the swamp by a tyrant known as Lord Farquaad (played in the movie by John Lithgow, in the stage version by young Carter McHady).

In order to get his swamp back, Shrek makes a deal with Farquaad to bring him a queen in exchange for the deed for his swamp. Shrek sets out with a talking Donkey and rescues Princess Fiona. While they take Fiona to Farquaad so she can marry him, Shrek starts to fall in love with the princess and soon discovers a shocking secret about her.

Conidi confesses to a special affinity for the Farquaad character, and the spin McHady gives it.

“I love the way he’s portrayed on stage! He accounts for most of the laughs in this production, (so) I’ll have to stop myself from watching him while I’m supposed to be acting!”

The title character is played by Jason Sholtes-Green and the Donkey is played by Maya Attwell.

Conidi gives propers to not only the principals, but the whole cast.

“(We also have) an ensemble of characters with many beautiful voices! I have some solos, but singing with the ensemble is so much more fun for me.”

Shrek the Musical Jr. plays the Georgian Theatre Saturday, Jan. 27. Show times are 3 and 6 p.m.

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Glenn Wilkins

About the Author: Glenn Wilkins

Glenn Wilkins, in a 30-year media career, has written for print and electronic media, as well as for TV and radio. Glenn has two books under his belt, profiling Canadian actors on Broadway and NHL coaches.
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