#foothillcollege

Andrew Ross found the strength in his portrayal as Shrek in song, mainly in the power ballads “Big, Bright, Beautiful World,” “Who I’d Be,” and the Act Two torch number, “Build a Wall.” Mr. Ross’ presence and strength as the titular ogre were well-developed attributes of his overall performance, especially when playing opposite Jocelyn Pickett’s outstanding Princess Fiona and Nick Kenrick’s memorable Donkey. Miss Pickett began her steal-the-show run as the quirky Princess in the opening number with a boisterous entrance and bubbly, infectious energy. Miss Pickett’s musical entrance in “I Know It’s Today” alongside Katelyn Hughes’ adorable Young Fiona and Cameryn Laird’s strong Teen Fiona was a solid introduction of her vocal talents, setting up high expectations for the remainder of the performance. Her leadership of the Act Two dance tune, “Morning Person,” was nothing short of excellent, executing Miss Riette’s tap and Fosse choreography with precision and vitality. Mr. Kenrick’s Donkey did land on the visually exhausting side through his constant stream of movement and takes to the audience, but hit his stride in a fun “Don’t Let Me Go” and a soulful “Make a Move,” with stellar backup vocals and dancing by Mylissa Malley, Sasha Motalygo, and Katie Mazon as the Three Blind Mice.

Joey McDaniel delivered a mighty performance as the pint-sized Lord Farquaad. Mr. McDaniel’s flamboyant demeanor in “What’s Up, Duloc?” was a top-notch musical endeavor that showcased stellar vocals and comedic inflection in its finest form. Mr. McDaniel’s Act Two solo, “The Ballad of Farquaad” was a delightful story-telling turn that set up a very funny bit at the end of the musical when the audience meets the wee man’s father. Jennifer Martinelli sung a dynamite “Forever” as the Dragon, no easy task for any female vocalist in the musical theatre realm.