Shrek the Musical Debuts at Zhangxin Theatre

On last Tuesday 14th of December, the first performance of our lavish production of Shrek the Musical took place. Shrek is the world’s most famous ogre. A big green Ogre with trumpet ears. This was the most eagerly awaited production in the history of our school, and it was certainly worth it!

Due to epidemic restrictions on audience size (a maximum of 200 socially distanced people were allowed in the Zhang Xin theatre at any one time) a total of three performances of Shrek the Musical were shown over two consecutive days. The premier opening night was for parents and guests, with two subsequent performances for our students in the lower and upper school taking place on the following days. The audience wore masks throughout the performance, observing strict epidemic control measures.

We were fortunate enough to see Shrek the Musical on the opening night, as the tickets for the show sold out very rapidly. The amount of effort on display was astonishing, especially when you consider that the entire production was put together in just twelve weeks! The production was elevated by an incredible animated backdrop screen, that the cast interacted with, which along with the lights, music, and song, created a fantastically immersive, big budget experience. This wasn’t a typical high school musical. It raised the bar in terms of production values and is a testament to just how seriously we take the performing arts at Dulwich International High School Suzhou. It takes a lot of hard work to put on a show that looks this effortless and is this much fun to watch!

It was clear to watch the performance that each student had worked incredibly hard to develop their characters, acting and singing skills. Whether students were in a “lead” role, a member of the chorus or working backstage, the fun that they were having was evident in everything they did. The quality of the singing was exceptional and highlighted both individual solo singing as well as multi-part harmonies, coming together in a seamless way.

Throughout the production, it was amazing to see so many areas of the school come together to support the development of the show.

The multi-talented Ms. Stephanie Park (Head of Drama) took on the role of Director as well as both Choreographer and Costume designer for Shrek the Musical. The quality of the acting, movement and costumes throughout the show was astounding, with incredible attention to detail on each character on stage.

Ms Park has worked closely with Mr. Sam Mulliner (Director of Performing Arts) to develop a sense of community within the cast and crew and she puts this down to the commitment of the pupils.

“Since the first audition for Shrek, we knew we were going to have an amazing production. Despite auditions being held during the early parts of the year when the school was in hybrid learning, we witnessed pupils' willingness to jump in and get involved, through both in-person and video auditions. In each rehearsal, the students would work tirelessly to ensure the production was enjoyable to the audience as well as everyone on stage".

The use of technology within Shrek the musical was incredibly atmospheric with lights used extensively for dramatic effect. Designed by Mr Seth Zeiter (from the English Department), the lights and sound, combining with the giant LED screen, help to create the visual effect of the performance and transported the audience to the swamp, Lord Farquaard’s Castle and the Dragon’s keep.

With the hard work of our dragon mistress, Mrs. Vikki Gibson (a member of the high school Art Department) and her team of dragon-tamers, the 14-foot dragon held a commanding presence on stage, complete with glowing eyes, flapping wings and moving mouth.

And other staff throughout the High School also came together to assist with props, costumes, sets, acting and supporting the pupils in such an ambitious project.

Each performance highlighted the skills and commitment of the students and Dulwich High School Suzhou. At the end of the show, the entire cast and crew took a bow and the audience responded with rapturous and heartfelt applause. This is what Mr. Mulliner had this to say about the performance:

“Over the past two years, the performing Arts team from Dulwich International High School Suzhou has gone from strength to strength, including today’s performance; our second musical in 2021!” 

Mr. Mulliner (who was the Musical Director, Producer and Lighting Designer for the show) went on to add: 

“Both students and staff have come together to create such a ‘beast’ of a performance. Students have been developing their acting skills and singing ability, as well as creating costumes, props and giant creatures and learning about theatre technology… all in less than three months! Participating in activities beyond the curriculum help students create an understanding of teamwork, individual commitment and the ability to create something extraordinary. Dulwich International High School Suzhou supports this through its CCA programme, sports, arts and in a multitude of additional ways and we encourage students to try something new – they may just discover something they love!” 

Without doubt, the secret to the success of the show, is that Ms. Park and Mr. Mulliner have worked professionally in musical theatre on Broadway and in the West End. It’s clear to see how their combined industry experience helped them to shape such a consummately professional production of Shrek the Musical. This is just one example of how the performing arts department at Dulwich International High School Suzhou is always trying to create new and exciting opportunities for our students to showcase their talents.