SHREK the Musical
at University High School

Reviewed on April 11, 2014

Allison Cruz
Aliso Niguel High School
Submitted for publication to Orange County Register

University's 'Shrek' Provides a 'Roaring' Good Time

Allison Cruz is a sophomore at Aliso Niguel High School in Aliso Viejo

The road to happily ever after can be a bumpy one filled with twists and turns through dragon-protected castles and an ogre's secluded swamp. In University High's "Shrek the Musical," an unlikely hero must overcome the social stigma of his monstrosity in order to become a Prince Charming (of sorts), who saves a beautiful princess -and himself- from missing out on a picturesque fairytale ending.

Sami Lodi burps, growls and roars as Shrek the ogre, a curmudgeon hardened by years of isolation and abandonment. Despite his flagrant disregard for propriety in "I Think I Got You Beat," Lodi's banter with the stunning Fiona (Alexandra Kramer) proves to be surprisingly heartwarming. Kramer's voice gracefully complements Lodi's defensive Scottish brogue with her angelic vibrato. She belts operatic notes and tap dances without the slightest trepidation, breaking the traditional mold of a dainty damsel in distress with proof that there is "More to the Story."

Donkey (Beylul Ephrem) charms with her interpretation of the unconventional "noble steed," dancing and guffawing all over the stage. Her palpable energy never falters, even while singing and doing the splits. Doubling as the show's choreographer, Ephrem's artistic talents thoroughly impress.

Redefining traditional love stories, Donkey falls in love with Dragon (Melissa Calica). Calica's sultry, soulful vocals remain solid throughout "Donkey Pot Pie," as she helps maneuver a 135-pound, mechanical dragon puppet. Operated by the Special Effects crew, as well as 5 Fireball castmates, this 3D puppet moves with glowing jade-green eyes. A fog machine completes the spectacle of a fire-breathing dragon.

With a severe case of Napoleon complex, Lord Farquaad (Austin Barber) stops at nothing to prove his power, even torturing the sweet Gingy (Megan Tran) and her precious gumdrop buttons. Much like Farquaad's height, his character is oftentimes short but consistent; nevertheless, Barber is nothing short of charming. He dances, runs and rides the prop crew's hobby horse all on his knees, an amazing (and certainly hilarious) feat.

The creatures of the story, brought to life by Nicole Ross' imaginative makeup design and Andrea Badescu's stylized costuming, add to the fantastical elements of the show. From prosthetic wicked witch noses to Shrek's 75-pound body suit, the characters were not only convincing but visually stimulating.

In this superb production, University's cast and crew shows that real magic in fairytales is found in true love.

Allison Cruz
Aliso Niguel High School
Submitted for publication to Orange County Register

University's 'Shrek' Provides a 'Roaring' Good Time

Allison Cruz is a sophomore at Aliso Niguel High School in Aliso Viejo

The road to happily ever after can be a bumpy one filled with twists and turns through dragon-protected castles and an ogre's secluded swamp. In University High's "Shrek the Musical," an unlikely hero must overcome the social stigma of his monstrosity in order to become a Prince Charming (of sorts), who saves a beautiful princess -and himself- from missing out on a picturesque fairytale ending.

Sami Lodi burps, growls and roars as Shrek the ogre, a curmudgeon hardened by years of isolation and abandonment. Despite his flagrant disregard for propriety in "I Think I Got You Beat," Lodi's banter with the stunning Fiona (Alexandra Kramer) proves to be surprisingly heartwarming. Kramer's voice gracefully complements Lodi's defensive Scottish brogue with her angelic vibrato. She belts operatic notes and tap dances without the slightest trepidation, breaking the traditional mold of a dainty damsel in distress with proof that there is "More to the Story."

Donkey (Beylul Ephrem) charms with her interpretation of the unconventional "noble steed," dancing and guffawing all over the stage. Her palpable energy never falters, even while singing and doing the splits. Doubling as the show's choreographer, Ephrem's artistic talents thoroughly impress.

Redefining traditional love stories, Donkey falls in love with Dragon (Melissa Calica). Calica's sultry, soulful vocals remain solid throughout "Donkey Pot Pie," as she helps maneuver a 135-pound, mechanical dragon puppet. Operated by the Special Effects crew, as well as 5 Fireball castmates, this 3D puppet moves with glowing jade-green eyes. A fog machine completes the spectacle of a fire-breathing dragon.

With a severe case of Napoleon complex, Lord Farquaad (Austin Barber) stops at nothing to prove his power, even torturing the sweet Gingy (Megan Tran) and her precious gumdrop buttons. Much like Farquaad's height, his character is oftentimes short but consistent; nevertheless, Barber is nothing short of charming. He dances, runs and rides the prop crew's hobby horse all on his knees, an amazing (and certainly hilarious) feat.

The creatures of the story, brought to life by Nicole Ross' imaginative makeup design and Andrea Badescu's stylized costuming, add to the fantastical elements of the show. From prosthetic wicked witch noses to Shrek's 75-pound body suit, the characters were not only convincing but visually stimulating.

In this superb production, University's cast and crew shows that real magic in fairytales is found in true love.

Erin Bola
Fountain Valley High School
Submitted for publication to Orange County Register

A ‘Shrek'-tacular production at University High

Erin Bola is a Junior at Fountain Valley High School in Fountain Valley

In virtually every fairy tale, the princess is whisked away from her imprisonment in the highest tower by a dashing knight, whom she marries and they live happily ever after – but not in University High's production of "Shrek! The Musical." Instead, this beautifully reimagined fairy tale comes to life with a vibrant cast of characters and impressive technical feats that showcase the story of how even the most aloof ogre can find love.

Sami Lodi stars Shrek, a reclusive ogre summoned to action when his precious swamp is invaded by a horde of outcast fairytale creatures. Lodi portrays his character with remarkable ease, including a realistic Scottish accent and clear facial expressions that portray the character's emotions. Lodi's Shrek transitions seamlessly throughout, beginning with a cold, unfriendly exterior that slowly melts away to reveal a softer and more sensitive interior, which is especially apparent in songs such as "Who I'd Be" and "Build a Wall."

The spunky and lively Princess Fiona is portrayed by Alexandra Kramer, who dazzles with her clear and consistent voice, showcased in numbers such as "More to the Story" and "I Know It's Today." Her bright energy serves as a stark contrast to Shrek, yet their chemistry shines through throughout the show. The duo's highlight is the number "I Think I Got You Beat", where both Lodi and Kramer hilariously face off in a battle of song, farts, and burps, while simultaneously sharing their troubled childhoods, and ends up bringing them closer together.

Beylul Ephrem is truly a sight to behold as the emblematic and attention-grabbing Donkey. Her playful mannerisms and sharp movements distinguish her as one of the most captivating components of the show. Ephrem's infectious energy as she tags along on Shrek's adventure helps to liven up the show and brings even more smiles to the audiences' faces.

The technical aspects of the show are out in full force, making for a well-rounded production that sparkles in more ways than one. The orchestra plays beautifully without missing a beat, nicely complimenting the actors singing onstage. Makeup by Nicole Ross, Niusha Naleki, Mia McCarey, and Isabelle Langlois, included impressive prosthetics on characters such as Shrek and the many fairytale creatures and helped bring the land of Duloc to life.

University's "Shrek! The Musical," allows audiences into their "Big Bright Beautiful World" with sincerity and infectious charm.

Erin Bola
Fountain Valley High School
Submitted for publication to Orange County Register

A ‘Shrek'-tacular production at University High

Erin Bola is a Junior at Fountain Valley High School in Fountain Valley

In virtually every fairy tale, the princess is whisked away from her imprisonment in the highest tower by a dashing knight, whom she marries and they live happily ever after – but not in University High's production of "Shrek! The Musical." Instead, this beautifully reimagined fairy tale comes to life with a vibrant cast of characters and impressive technical feats that showcase the story of how even the most aloof ogre can find love.

Sami Lodi stars Shrek, a reclusive ogre summoned to action when his precious swamp is invaded by a horde of outcast fairytale creatures. Lodi portrays his character with remarkable ease, including a realistic Scottish accent and clear facial expressions that portray the character's emotions. Lodi's Shrek transitions seamlessly throughout, beginning with a cold, unfriendly exterior that slowly melts away to reveal a softer and more sensitive interior, which is especially apparent in songs such as "Who I'd Be" and "Build a Wall."

The spunky and lively Princess Fiona is portrayed by Alexandra Kramer, who dazzles with her clear and consistent voice, showcased in numbers such as "More to the Story" and "I Know It's Today." Her bright energy serves as a stark contrast to Shrek, yet their chemistry shines through throughout the show. The duo's highlight is the number "I Think I Got You Beat", where both Lodi and Kramer hilariously face off in a battle of song, farts, and burps, while simultaneously sharing their troubled childhoods, and ends up bringing them closer together.

Beylul Ephrem is truly a sight to behold as the emblematic and attention-grabbing Donkey. Her playful mannerisms and sharp movements distinguish her as one of the most captivating components of the show. Ephrem's infectious energy as she tags along on Shrek's adventure helps to liven up the show and brings even more smiles to the audiences' faces.

The technical aspects of the show are out in full force, making for a well-rounded production that sparkles in more ways than one. The orchestra plays beautifully without missing a beat, nicely complimenting the actors singing onstage. Makeup by Nicole Ross, Niusha Naleki, Mia McCarey, and Isabelle Langlois, included impressive prosthetics on characters such as Shrek and the many fairytale creatures and helped bring the land of Duloc to life.

University's "Shrek! The Musical," allows audiences into their "Big Bright Beautiful World" with sincerity and infectious charm.

Danielle Darling
Aliso Niguel High School
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook

University High School Lets Their Freak Flag Fly

Once upon a time, in a land far far away, all the fairytales you think you know have been turned upside-down. Here, an ogre can be a hero, a dragon can fall in love with a donkey, and a princess looks great in green. This mysterious land is the stage of University High School in their production of "Shrek! The Musical."

Shrek is an ogre who has lived in solitude on his swamp since he was seven, until a group of miscellaneous fairytale creatures are dropped on his doorstep by the small-minded Lord Farquaad. Shrek meets up with a loud-mouthed Donkey and together they embark on a journey to save a princess named Fiona.

Shrek's (Sami Lodi) harsh angry ogre learns to peel back his tough outer layers and reveal his heart of gold. Lodi portrays the character with a roaring voice and spot on accent, who emotionally transforms as he realizes he's in love with Fiona during the song, "When Words Fail." Also along for the ride is Donkey, Shrek's best friend (as well as biggest nuisance), played by Beylul Ephrem. Ephrem makes the entire stage as her playground, dancing and cracking jokes with stellar comedic timing. Shrek and Donkey's banter on their journey to Dulac make it a road trip to remember.

Stealing the show with her stunning vocals and exuberant personality, Princess Fiona (Alexandra Kramer) is not your typical damsel in distress. Kramer captures the spirit of a girl who's been contained in a tower her whole life and desperately seeks the happily ever after she's read about for years. Her sparkling soprano and spunky tap dancing shine during the vibrant number "Morning Person."

The show's build crew (Corinne Alsop, Jordan Bodie, Gabriel Badescu, Eleanor Goulden) create a gorgeous set that immerses the audience in the fairytale world and transport us from Shrek's swamp to Fiona's tower to the town of Duloc. Andrea Badescu' s costumes make the characters we know and love easily recognizable, going so far as to include little details such as having the three little pigs' overalls match the material they used to build their houses.

University High School's performance of Shrek will not only bring you back to the storybook world of dragon's and princesses, it will also remind you to stay true to who you are and to "let your freak flag fly!"

Danielle Darling
Aliso Niguel High School
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook

University High School Lets Their Freak Flag Fly

Once upon a time, in a land far far away, all the fairytales you think you know have been turned upside-down. Here, an ogre can be a hero, a dragon can fall in love with a donkey, and a princess looks great in green. This mysterious land is the stage of University High School in their production of "Shrek! The Musical."

Shrek is an ogre who has lived in solitude on his swamp since he was seven, until a group of miscellaneous fairytale creatures are dropped on his doorstep by the small-minded Lord Farquaad. Shrek meets up with a loud-mouthed Donkey and together they embark on a journey to save a princess named Fiona.

Shrek's (Sami Lodi) harsh angry ogre learns to peel back his tough outer layers and reveal his heart of gold. Lodi portrays the character with a roaring voice and spot on accent, who emotionally transforms as he realizes he's in love with Fiona during the song, "When Words Fail." Also along for the ride is Donkey, Shrek's best friend (as well as biggest nuisance), played by Beylul Ephrem. Ephrem makes the entire stage as her playground, dancing and cracking jokes with stellar comedic timing. Shrek and Donkey's banter on their journey to Dulac make it a road trip to remember.

Stealing the show with her stunning vocals and exuberant personality, Princess Fiona (Alexandra Kramer) is not your typical damsel in distress. Kramer captures the spirit of a girl who's been contained in a tower her whole life and desperately seeks the happily ever after she's read about for years. Her sparkling soprano and spunky tap dancing shine during the vibrant number "Morning Person."

The show's build crew (Corinne Alsop, Jordan Bodie, Gabriel Badescu, Eleanor Goulden) create a gorgeous set that immerses the audience in the fairytale world and transport us from Shrek's swamp to Fiona's tower to the town of Duloc. Andrea Badescu' s costumes make the characters we know and love easily recognizable, going so far as to include little details such as having the three little pigs' overalls match the material they used to build their houses.

University High School's performance of Shrek will not only bring you back to the storybook world of dragon's and princesses, it will also remind you to stay true to who you are and to "let your freak flag fly!"