DON’T miss Shrek The Musical, in May.
The Sainsbury Singers will perform the show, based on the Oscar winning Dreamworks film, bringing to life ogre Shrek, his sidekick Donkey, and the beautiful Princess Fiona.
The performance group is the longest-running local musical theatre society, and Shrek is the fastest selling show in their 87year history.
Like all good fairy stories, it begins in a beautiful kingdom far far away, but things get ugly when an unseemly ogre, not a handsome prince, shows up to rescue a feisty princess.
Throw in a donkey who won’t shut up, a villain with a short temper, a cookie with attitude and a dozen or more other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero.
Luckily, there’s one on hand – his name is Shrek.
Director Cath Hannan said: “Shrek will be my 41st production with The Sainsbury Singers and I’m thrilled to be directing such a huge, fun and funny show.
“This is the biggest production that we’ve ever undertaken and it’s going to be utterly spectacular!
“From all the tickets that have already been snapped up, it’s clear that audiences are excited to see this heart-warming tale brought to life on stage, and everyone involved is buzzing to ensure that the whole production is fantastic, high-quality family entertainment.”
The show features a score of all-new songs and a script with big laughs.
Part romance, part twisted fairy tale, it’s filled with irreverent fun for all the family.
Musical Director Owen Lloyd added: “The Sainsbury Singers have a great reputation for putting on award-winning, high-quality productions with top notch singing and acting, and Shrek is no different.
“In addition to a fabulous cast, we’ve got a 12-piece live band, an epic set and beautiful costumes – I can’t wait to share this spectacular production with a live audience.”
The Sainsbury Singers are a Reading-based amateur musical theatre society dedicated to providing quality entertainment for the local community and beyond.
Established in 1938 by Frank Sainsbury, previous productions range from the operetta of Gilbert & Sullivan and Offenbach, to classic musical theatre such as Oklahama! and My Fair Lady, right through to modern productions such as Jekyll and Hyde.
Shrek can be seen at The Hexagon, Reading, on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, May 14, 15, and 16 at 7.30pm, and on Saturday, May 17, at 2pm and 7pm.
Tickets cost £25 for adults, £22 for students, over 60s and under 18s, and £12.50 for under 16s.
Early booking is encouraged with the matinee already sold out and other performances filling up fast.
Friday’s performance will be BSL signed.
For information, and to book, visit: whatsonreading.comand sainsburysingers.org.uk