Shrek the Musical
at Northwood High School

Reviewed on February 16, 2017

Alex Theologides-Rodriguez
University High School
Submitted for publication to OC Varsity Arts

Northwood's ‘Shrek' Has Layers of Fun
written by Alex Theologides-Rodriguez, a junior at University High School

Northwood High School's "Shrek the Musical" is a hilarious romp through the world of well-known fairy tale creatures, complete with a multilayered set and hilarious performances.

William Chinn as Shrek, wearing a hulking ogre costume with green makeup and massive fake hands, is totally hilarious with his consistent Scottish accent and deadpan delivery, even during song numbers. His monotone voice shows his character's complete lack of interest in the business of all the other fairy tale creatures, and his energy is juxtaposed against the fast-paced, wacky tone of the rest of the show.

Fiona, played by Katherina Paladichuk, has an innocent, sincere smile paired with wide, crazy eyes, showing that while she does truly believe that she'll get her fairy tale ending, she isn't just a normal princess, and she won't hesitate to snap at anyone who criticizes her storybook fantasy. Paladichuk's voice reflects this combination, at one moment sonorous and lovely, then suddenly full of sass and attitude.

Farquaad, played by Calvin Calilung, shuffles hilariously across the stage on his knees with tiny stuffed legs dangling in front of him, and a long, royal cape hiding his real legs. His smile is infectious, and it grows every second he's onstage. With pompous intonation and a wonderfully condescending voice, Calilung's over-the-top performance make every scene and song he's in a total delight.

The set of the show always has depth to it, whether it be groups of trees in the foreground and background of a swamp or the castle walls of Duloc flanking a tower, perched upon by Lord Farquaad. This adds another dimension to the show, and allows for choreography that incorporates the set. Several characters even move through the audience during the show, making it feel like the entire theater is part of their fairy tale world, not just the stage.

In addition to the set, Northwood built a large prop dragon, controlled by four crew members with rods attached to the head, torso, and tail. They puppeteer the mechanical beast to dance, while Vonnie Wei, the physical embodiment of the character Dragon, sings with a smooth, soulful voice as powerful as Dragon's flaming breath.

With a huge ensemble of fairy tale characters, each with distinct and lovable personalities, Northwood's "Shrek the Musical" delivers a tender message of acceptance and pride, while never failing to be outrageous and wacky.

Alex Theologides-Rodriguez
University High School
Submitted for publication to OC Varsity Arts

Northwood's ‘Shrek' Has Layers of Fun
written by Alex Theologides-Rodriguez, a junior at University High School

Northwood High School's "Shrek the Musical" is a hilarious romp through the world of well-known fairy tale creatures, complete with a multilayered set and hilarious performances.

William Chinn as Shrek, wearing a hulking ogre costume with green makeup and massive fake hands, is totally hilarious with his consistent Scottish accent and deadpan delivery, even during song numbers. His monotone voice shows his character's complete lack of interest in the business of all the other fairy tale creatures, and his energy is juxtaposed against the fast-paced, wacky tone of the rest of the show.

Fiona, played by Katherina Paladichuk, has an innocent, sincere smile paired with wide, crazy eyes, showing that while she does truly believe that she'll get her fairy tale ending, she isn't just a normal princess, and she won't hesitate to snap at anyone who criticizes her storybook fantasy. Paladichuk's voice reflects this combination, at one moment sonorous and lovely, then suddenly full of sass and attitude.

Farquaad, played by Calvin Calilung, shuffles hilariously across the stage on his knees with tiny stuffed legs dangling in front of him, and a long, royal cape hiding his real legs. His smile is infectious, and it grows every second he's onstage. With pompous intonation and a wonderfully condescending voice, Calilung's over-the-top performance make every scene and song he's in a total delight.

The set of the show always has depth to it, whether it be groups of trees in the foreground and background of a swamp or the castle walls of Duloc flanking a tower, perched upon by Lord Farquaad. This adds another dimension to the show, and allows for choreography that incorporates the set. Several characters even move through the audience during the show, making it feel like the entire theater is part of their fairy tale world, not just the stage.

In addition to the set, Northwood built a large prop dragon, controlled by four crew members with rods attached to the head, torso, and tail. They puppeteer the mechanical beast to dance, while Vonnie Wei, the physical embodiment of the character Dragon, sings with a smooth, soulful voice as powerful as Dragon's flaming breath.

With a huge ensemble of fairy tale characters, each with distinct and lovable personalities, Northwood's "Shrek the Musical" delivers a tender message of acceptance and pride, while never failing to be outrageous and wacky.

Julia Pacific
Tesoro High School
Submitted for publication to OC Varsity Arts

"Shrek The Musical" at Northwood Is Truly Magical
written by Julia Pacific, a junior at Tesoro High School

The curtain rises on a wooden outhouse surrounded by green, mossy scenery before the Scottish bellowing of a familiar ogre fills the theater and instantly transports the audience into the beloved fairytale world of Shrek. Northwood High School's production of this musical brings whimsy, spunk, and creativity into this classic story about an unlikely journey toward love between an ogre and a princess.

William Chinn shows both the angry monster and vulnerable romantic within Shrek. His heavy steps and tall posture with chin up and belly forward exude pride and contentment for his lifestyle: alone in his swamp. He makes it clear that he does not want that to change, until he meets and falls for Fiona. His movements become more tentative and awkward as he opens up to her, and a shy smile creeps across his face when she laughs at his jokes.

Princess Fiona, Katherine Paladichuk, brings a fresh and buoyant energy to the stage. She maintains a light and airy step, as any princess should, but keeps a strong stance when defending herself and the people she cares about. When she transforms into her ogre form, she reveals another side to her as she passionately sings about longing for a happy ending with her head down, ashamed of her true form.

Donkey, portrayed by Ian Gibson, completes this delightfully entertaining trio. Gibson embodies this character with his snappy dialogue delivery complemented by his over-the-top facial expressions. His hooves become the forefront of his physicality as he struts and grooves to the upbeat songs in the show. His more endearing moments come when he uses a calmer, even toned voice to confront Shrek, which strengthens that bond throughout the story.

Ellie Cross's hair and makeup designs are versatile and unique to each character. Whether it is working around a growing Pinocchio nose or changing Fiona from princess to full green ogre within minutes, her precision and execution shine through to create realistic looking fairytale creatures. Prop design by Hazar Eldick and Akash Seeramreddi does not leave out a single detail. The intricacy of every piece from the extravagant, flying dragon, to the Pinocchio nose that actually grows when he lies makes for a truly authentic show.

Loving others for who they truly are inside, regardless of looks is the message that Northwood wonderfully portrays through this comedic, yet heartwarming tale.

Julia Pacific
Tesoro High School
Submitted for publication to OC Varsity Arts

"Shrek The Musical" at Northwood Is Truly Magical
written by Julia Pacific, a junior at Tesoro High School

The curtain rises on a wooden outhouse surrounded by green, mossy scenery before the Scottish bellowing of a familiar ogre fills the theater and instantly transports the audience into the beloved fairytale world of Shrek. Northwood High School's production of this musical brings whimsy, spunk, and creativity into this classic story about an unlikely journey toward love between an ogre and a princess.

William Chinn shows both the angry monster and vulnerable romantic within Shrek. His heavy steps and tall posture with chin up and belly forward exude pride and contentment for his lifestyle: alone in his swamp. He makes it clear that he does not want that to change, until he meets and falls for Fiona. His movements become more tentative and awkward as he opens up to her, and a shy smile creeps across his face when she laughs at his jokes.

Princess Fiona, Katherine Paladichuk, brings a fresh and buoyant energy to the stage. She maintains a light and airy step, as any princess should, but keeps a strong stance when defending herself and the people she cares about. When she transforms into her ogre form, she reveals another side to her as she passionately sings about longing for a happy ending with her head down, ashamed of her true form.

Donkey, portrayed by Ian Gibson, completes this delightfully entertaining trio. Gibson embodies this character with his snappy dialogue delivery complemented by his over-the-top facial expressions. His hooves become the forefront of his physicality as he struts and grooves to the upbeat songs in the show. His more endearing moments come when he uses a calmer, even toned voice to confront Shrek, which strengthens that bond throughout the story.

Ellie Cross's hair and makeup designs are versatile and unique to each character. Whether it is working around a growing Pinocchio nose or changing Fiona from princess to full green ogre within minutes, her precision and execution shine through to create realistic looking fairytale creatures. Prop design by Hazar Eldick and Akash Seeramreddi does not leave out a single detail. The intricacy of every piece from the extravagant, flying dragon, to the Pinocchio nose that actually grows when he lies makes for a truly authentic show.

Loving others for who they truly are inside, regardless of looks is the message that Northwood wonderfully portrays through this comedic, yet heartwarming tale.

Kaz Shade
Irvine High School
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook Page

Northwood's Shrek the musical is Shrektacular
written by Kaz Shade, a sophmore at Irvine High School

Northwood High School's theatre department performs Shrek the musical with an incredible sense of wonder and craftsmanship. An increasingly relevant satirical comedy written by David Lindsay-Abaire, Shrek follows the adventures of a couple misfits attempting to do some good in the world.

Katherine Paladichuk plays the fiery Fiona alongside William Chinn as her apathetic companion Shrek. Chinn's sarcastic tone compliments Paladichuk's joyful enthusiam elegantly, creating an entertaining dialogue. The pair's interactions thrive, from Chinn reluctantly carrying Paladichuk down a tower to their emotional duets about love, there is never a dull moment.

Ian Gibson portrays Shrek's outlandish comrade Donkey. Gibson's witty delivery of comedic lines provokes laughter throughout the play. Despite the hardships of the characters, the lighthearted spirit he brings to the show keeps the optimistic tone. Though less cheery than Donkey, Lord Farquaad as played by Calvin Calilung also adds a comedic tone to the production. With jerky movements and exaggerated emotions, Calilung brings a unique style to his character that is both humorous and provocative.

The cast's musical skills also shine brightly throughout the show. "Freak Flag" performed by the wildly diverse fairytail creatures is a wonderful reflection of the performers' passion and dedication. With complimenting voices and synchronized dancing the ensemble captures the spirit of the play. Vonnie Wei as Dragon showcases her tremendous voice in her mesmerizing solos and harmonizes beautifully in the group numbers. The choreography directed by Katherine Paladichuk exhibits classic elements of musical dancing along with a refreshing modern flare that creates an extraordinary display.

Sound design is another high point of the show, consisting of everything from dragon roars to the bodily functions of ogres. The sounds are precisely timed with the actors on stage and accurately represent the actions they convey. Hair and Makeup designed by Ellie Cross is also notably innovative. With such a variety of characters the unique colors and styles used for each emphasizes their differences while also expressing the magical theme.

Both the tech team and the performers work collectively to put on an amazing performance. Northwood's interpretation of Shrek the Musical is a modern masterpiece.

Kaz Shade
Irvine High School
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook Page

Northwood's Shrek the musical is Shrektacular
written by Kaz Shade, a sophmore at Irvine High School

Northwood High School's theatre department performs Shrek the musical with an incredible sense of wonder and craftsmanship. An increasingly relevant satirical comedy written by David Lindsay-Abaire, Shrek follows the adventures of a couple misfits attempting to do some good in the world.

Katherine Paladichuk plays the fiery Fiona alongside William Chinn as her apathetic companion Shrek. Chinn's sarcastic tone compliments Paladichuk's joyful enthusiam elegantly, creating an entertaining dialogue. The pair's interactions thrive, from Chinn reluctantly carrying Paladichuk down a tower to their emotional duets about love, there is never a dull moment.

Ian Gibson portrays Shrek's outlandish comrade Donkey. Gibson's witty delivery of comedic lines provokes laughter throughout the play. Despite the hardships of the characters, the lighthearted spirit he brings to the show keeps the optimistic tone. Though less cheery than Donkey, Lord Farquaad as played by Calvin Calilung also adds a comedic tone to the production. With jerky movements and exaggerated emotions, Calilung brings a unique style to his character that is both humorous and provocative.

The cast's musical skills also shine brightly throughout the show. "Freak Flag" performed by the wildly diverse fairytail creatures is a wonderful reflection of the performers' passion and dedication. With complimenting voices and synchronized dancing the ensemble captures the spirit of the play. Vonnie Wei as Dragon showcases her tremendous voice in her mesmerizing solos and harmonizes beautifully in the group numbers. The choreography directed by Katherine Paladichuk exhibits classic elements of musical dancing along with a refreshing modern flare that creates an extraordinary display.

Sound design is another high point of the show, consisting of everything from dragon roars to the bodily functions of ogres. The sounds are precisely timed with the actors on stage and accurately represent the actions they convey. Hair and Makeup designed by Ellie Cross is also notably innovative. With such a variety of characters the unique colors and styles used for each emphasizes their differences while also expressing the magical theme.

Both the tech team and the performers work collectively to put on an amazing performance. Northwood's interpretation of Shrek the Musical is a modern masterpiece.