Community Enjoys Musical Based on Instant Classic

This past weekend the Inland Empire was treated to some spectacular entertainment when Geri Marquez led a talented cast in exceptional Terrace View production, for the 7th year, “Shrek the Musical” brought to life at the Colton High School auditorium. Audiences got to see fairytale creatures come to life in a colorful, and very funny musical treat! In preparation for the production, many of the cast members had become fans of the the DVD of the original Broadway cast production. They were excited to learn that the role of The White Rabbit was originated and played by local (Redlands) actor Noah Rivera. Rivera is currently performing in “Jersey Boys” at the Paris in Las Vegas, but was in Southern California the Monday of “Shrek’s” final rehearsals. He had spoken with Geri Marquez about stopping by to speak with the cast and she was thrilled! Noah came to the Monday evening rehearsal and shared about his experience creating a new Broadway show, working with a top-notch cast that included Sutton Foster and Brian D’Arcy James and the excitement of playing numerous roles in the show. He was also able to share highlights of his other Broadway performances in “Wicked” and “In the Heights”, as well as giving advice about training and the audition process. Rivera took questions from the cast, pausing to mention that he and leading lady Samantha Stevenson (Fiona) has performed in “Guys and Dolls” while in high school at Redlands Arrowhead Christian Academy. Noah was impressed with the great work that Samantha and all the cast were doing. He was particularly moved by the fact that for many cast members “Shrek” was their very first show. “I am so grateful to have been able to come meet them” he said. “If someone from the original cast of “Oliver” had come to the Fontana Mummers to speak to our cast (Rivera’s first show at age 8) I would have been so in awe. These kids are great,” he added. “They asked really good questions. You can tell they are serious about the craft of acting. Geri has done a wonderful job with them. This experience has really been a blessing,” said Rivera. Director Marquez was very appreciative of Noah’s visit. “Having Noah was so wonderful and exciting for our cast. It really helped to stimulate and inspire all of my actors... both the young and old. Starting off our 'heck week' in this way was good for everyone, as I know everyone seemed to enjoy and hang on Noah's every word. His accomplishments and experience are so commendable.. and knowing that he came from the same neighborhoods, same theatre groups, and same people that all these kids are from showed what potential, hard work, and real determination aspiring to be a great performer they can be too,” Marques said. Cast members took photographs with Noah and asked for autographs as well. Hannah Thompson, who played Goldilocks said: "Shrek is really fun to do. It's got a lot of comedy, romance, action.. You name it! I recommend auditioning and trying out for these musicals. I thought it was really cool that Noah came. All of the kids loved it and adored him! It was a great experience that someone who is actually on Broadway could come and share a whole bunch of tips with us!" Alyssa Day, who plead the Sugar Plum Fairy had high praise for everyone involved in this production: “I think what Geri Marquez does every year is absolutely amazing. She gives kids of all ages this incredible opportunity to perform and experience a real show with all of its ups and downs. These kids are so talented and to see them get up and give it their all is so fun. When Noah Rivera came to speak to these kids at our rehearsal I was blown away. He gave advice I would have loved to receive as a kid trying to get the hang of acting. He answered all of their questions and encouraged them in ways only a professional could. Having Noah there was a once in a lifetime opportunity that I am so honored to have been a part of. Thank you Noah!“ As the play began, the retelling of this hilarious movie did not disappoint, maintaining the comedy and adventure of the movie. The play had a darker tone than the movie in the beginning, as 7-year-old Shrek was put on the street by his parents as they informed him in song, of the cruel reality of an ogre, that he must face as an outcast in society. Other parts of the play had a lighter tone than the movie, and it brought a balance that both kids and adults enjoyed. Shrek was played by Terrace View teacher, and long-time actor Tom Fletcher, who owned the role in a way that was easy to mistake his accent to Mike Myers. Jacqueline Gamboa, Megan Ramirez, and Samantha Stephenson were Fiona at different ages, and they captured Fiona's dreams of a romantic rescue and a happily ever after. Steven Spellacy put his own style into the character of the lovable Donkey, which was presented as a no-apologies, fun-loving and flamboyant feature, which won the hearts of those who attended the play right away. The team of talented actors from Terrace View Elementary and the community were complemented by the professional live band, set and costumes that the team worked to provide for the community.