A real life fairytale is made true every night when the curtain rises on Shrek The Musical as along with those of the Three Pigs. Pinocchio, and a green ogre the dreams of Robert Teasdale are also brought to fruition. While growing up he yearned to be an onstage performer and now in his first national tour, Teasdale is living a dream. Playing the role of the Big Bad Wolf, Teasdale and Shrek The Musical will be at the Victoria Theatre on January 15 - 27.
Teasdale is thrilled to be part of Shrek which mirrors the first movie, but is more of a visual spectacle. “It’s a totally different viewing experience than the movie. It’s visually stunning. And whether you’ve seen the movie once or ten times, you’ll love the show,” he said.
The show also contains more music, including ‘I’m A Believer,’ and Teasdale guarantees the audience will be hooked by the songs. He himself is prone to humming many of the tunes through the day, which are stuck in his head.
Another strength of Shrek is its love story that pulls at the heart strings, as the ogres learn the value of inner beauty and self acceptance. Beneath all the miraculous scenery, stellar performances and belly laughs is an inspiring message that can reach all ages. “It’s amazing how many people are affected by the powerful message that it’s alright to be yourself. That being different can be beautiful. It’s great to be able to express that every night,” said Teasdale.
Raised in Florida, Teasdale became passionate about theater during his sophomore year of high school when he played Charlie Darylmple in Brigadoon. The production was selected for the Main Stage where it was performed in front of crowds of more than 2,000 people. Teasdale says the experience made a big impact on him, “I remember that first night, thinking that I’d love to do this for the rest of my life.”
Teasdale went on to graduate from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City, and has been working ever since. His regional credits include Hairspray (Corny), Legally Blonde (Warner), and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Caleb).
His role as the Big Bad Wolf in Shrek isn’t as ferocious as expected due to the character that’s all bark and no bite. “The Big Bad Wolf is not that at all, he’s big softie who wears grandma’s dress the whole time,” Teasdale laughed.
Being his first national tour, it’s the most Teasdale has ever performed one show and he’s accepting the challenge to keep it energized every night. “The audience is seeing it for the first time and it’s my job to make the show fresh for them every night,” he said.
Shrek is family friendly and geared to be enjoyed by all ages. Children and adults alike are known to get enthralled by the action. The fairytale will be brought to life on the Victoria Theatre stage on January 15 - 27. For show times and ticket information go to www.victoriatheatre.com or www.ticketcenterstage.com.
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