Some of the cast from Shrek, The Musical with vocal coach Brendan Hanson in workshops at the Bijou. Photo: Amy Clarke
MARCELLA SHARRY
Excitement is building in Esperance as the Esperance Theatre Guild enters Week 14 of rehearsals for Shrek, The Musical, set to open at the Bijou Theatre on November 15. Directed by Keah Truncali, with musical direction by Cait Edwards, this family-friendly production promises to delight audiences with its humour, heart, and a cast of beloved fairy tale characters.
The production has benefited from a series of upskilling workshops made possible by generous support from the Esperance Ag Fund and the Mt Burdette Foundation. These workshops have offered volunteers and cast members the chance to develop new skills and elevate the quality of the show, which is shaping up to be a highlight of the local arts calendar.
Earlier this month the cast participated in a two-day vocal workshop led by renowned performer Brendan Hanson, fresh from his role in Hairspray. Hanson worked closely with the actors, sharing his expertise and helping to refine their vocal performances.
“It was a fantastic experience,” Director Keah Truncali said.
“Brendan’s insights have helped our cast reach new levels of performance, and the improvement is clear.”
In August the set-building team participated in a workshop led by Rosie Martin of Maker Change Creatives, where volunteers learned the art of creating immersive stage sets, turning the Bijou Theatre into the magical world of Shrek.
On the weekend as Gwen Fox was due to return for her second round of prosthetics and makeup workshops, funded by the Mt Burdette Foundation.
Fox works with the team to transform the cast into their fairy tale counterparts, so characters like Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey come to life with professional-level makeup and prosthetics.
As opening night draws near, the Theatre Guild has announced that tickets will go on sale on Friday, October 18. With just four weeks to go, the buzz surrounding the production is palpable.
“We’re all so excited to share this show with the Esperance community,” Edwards said. “The music is lively, the story is heartwarming, and the cast is giving their all to bring it together.”
Opening November 15 7pm.
7pm shows: November 16, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 with Sunday matinees 2pm November 17, 24, and December 1.
Marcella Sharry is Shrek, The Musical producer.
