Shrek, The Musical
This year's College Musical, Shrek is Aitken's "coming-of-age" show; the 21st Senior College Musical presented since 2002. Leading the way this year is a new senior production team, with Mr Jevon Scandrett as Director and Ms Donna Rowe-Campbell as Choreographer.
Jevon explains, "The musical version of ‘Shrek’ is the story we all know and love, with a new soundtrack and score that includes some very catchy numbers. Audiences learn more about the backstory of the characters through their songs and we have a bit more time to get to know them and see their relationships with each other develop."
Students have been working since late February on this show and both Jevon and Donna have shared some of their thoughts and experiences.
Jevon says-
I have really enjoyed the process of directing ‘Shrek the Musical’. The students are so enthusiastic, and I have been so impressed with their commitment and eagerness to continually improve upon their performances. As I usually work with our younger students in Fairview, I have enjoyed getting to know our secondary students and working with a range of year levels on this production.
Right from the beginning of this process we were committed to bringing the characters that audiences know so well to life, and so I am excited for audiences to see our students showcasing some incredible costumes that are faithful to the original. We have some very talented students at Aitken College, and I am excited for audiences to witness their wonderful performances.
I’ve been very surprised by how quickly the students are able to adapt to learning the material and taking on any changes that we have made throughout the process. It has been wonderful to witness the growth in confidence for some students who were apprehensive at first.
I have many favourite scenes, however one would have to be ‘Morning Person’ and the tap dancing rats that open Act 2. The closing number of Act 1, ‘Who I’d Be’, is always such a powerful scene to watch the students perform, and I’m sure audiences are going to be very moved by this song.
Donna adds-
The show is high energy and it showcases a diverse range of dance styles. I would describe the dancing as comedic, upbeat and joyful. Something for everyone!
My favourite musical number would have to be 'Morning Person' because it has a bit of everything, humour, high kicks, high energy and it gives the dancers the chance to showcase their tap dancing skills.
Working on my first Aitken Musical has been amazing. I feel so fortunate to be working alongside such talented staff and students. The staff have been so supportive and encouraging and have so much to offer. It has been so much fun getting to know the secondary students as I am used to working with primary students. The musical camp was a real highlight, it was exhausting but so rewarding!
Jevon and Donna are supported by Ms Elise Zijai (Head of Performing Arts) as Producer/Assistant Director. Ms Robyn Cole returns for the sixth year in a row as Musical Director with the assistance of Ms Ebony McCarthy as Choral Director.
Leading the cast in the titular role is Lachlan T from Year 11. He first took on the role of Buddy Holly in last year's musical. Following her role of Scaramouche last year, Jasmine E will play Princess Fiona while Angelique C plays Shrek's lovable companion, Donkey.
A cast of almost 50 students from Year 5-12 will present the show at the start of Term Three. They are accompanied by a 12-Piece band, made up primarily of students and a crew of almost 30 students and staff making the magic work.
There are five performances commencing on Friday 21 July. Bookings are already strong so you are encouraged to secure your tickets now using the link below.
All tickets are $20, with savings for a Family of Four at just $70 (plus booking fees).
