Jeff Guppy School of Musical Theatre have been hard at work putting together their biggest performance yet. The beloved hit show, Shrek the Musical, will be at School School on the 3rd August for a 2pm and 6pm performance.
We spoke to the director, Amy Guppy, about the exciting upcoming performance and what we can expect from this cast of incredibly talented young performers.
Why did you choose Shrek for this year’s big production?
We chose Shrek because its packed with amazing characters that gives our students a chance to shine. Shrek is all about being yourself and accepting others which is really important to teach our students. The score is also incredible, and the references to other musicals is just genius.
What makes this show your biggest one yet?
Shrek has it all! A huge cast, big musical numbers, wild costumes, even a fire breathing dragon! It’s also our most ambitious show behind the scenes from the scenery to the prosthetics! Everyone has been working so hard to bring this magical world to life. This production feels like a real celebration of everything our school has grown into.
What have been some of the biggest challenges in bringing such a well-loved story to the stage?
The characters are really iconic, we’ve worked really hard to stay true to the story while also taking our own twist on it! With the quick changes and chaotic backstage moments it all comes together to create a spectacle on stage. All our students are children which has also been a challenge, but they’re professionalism and maturity is admirable! We forget they’re only kids!
Can you tell us a bit about the creative – from casting to opening night?
It all started with our audition process, one of the most exciting (and hardest) parts. We had so many talented kids audition and it was incredible to see them all bringing the characters to life. We began rehearsals in May, rehearsing once a week beginning with the large ensemble numbers first. Our principles then received 1 to 1 singing, acting and dialect sessions. As we approached opening night the excitement increased. We began costume fittings, technical rehearsals and prop making (a huge thank you to all our students and parents who created our incredible props!). The energy and teamwork coming together has been really special.
How do you balance staying true to the original story while still adding your own creative flair?
We know people love Shrek for its humour, its message about accepting yourself and its unforgettable characters – so we have stuck to that. But live theatre gives us freedom to play, explore and add our own twist. We’ve worked closely with the cast and we’ve had fun with the choreography, staging and vocal choices that suits our students.
What has impressed you most about how the students have taken on such iconic characters?
What has impressed us the most is how fearless and playful the students have been. They’ve not just copied the film or the Broadway production, they’ve brought their own ideas, mannerisms and heart to the role which has made the performances feel fresh, real and genuinely moving (we’ve laughed and cried throughout the whole process!). They’ve really proved that age doesn’t limit talent or passion!
Do you have any particular shows you’d like to do in the future?
Yes! Too many to choose from. We might take on our first Disney musical next year full of magic, mystery and some enchanted friends but we don’t want to ‘Spill The Tea’ too much. Keep your eyes peeled on our socials.
