The Magic of Broadway Comes to Vietnam: An Australian Director’s Vision
The Broadway-caliber musical, Shrek, is set to wow audiences in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi this summer as part of the Shrek: On National Tour project. Produced by The YOUniverse, a creative ecosystem under Pacific Ocean Partners Group based in Australia, the musical promises to be a treat for families and theater enthusiasts alike.
Shrek is more than just a fun and entertaining musical; it’s a show that brings families together and helps parents and children connect on a deeper level as they experience the powerful messages conveyed through the performance. And this year, the beloved characters of Shrek, Fiona, and their friends are venturing to Ho Chi Minh City for the very first time, offering a unique and exciting opportunity for the local community.
Australian director Jesse Donaldson Jarrett, who is at the helm of this production, shared his insights with The Hanoi Times about the upcoming show, his experience working with local talent, and his vision for the future of the arts in Vietnam. Jarrett, a graduate of the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in Australia, has an impressive background in theater, having worked as an actor, producer, assistant director, and director across a range of plays.
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| Actors bring Shrek to life during rehearsals. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times |
Jarrett shared his thoughts on the involvement of Vietnamese youth in the 2024 Shrek musical: “I’ve been continually impressed by the young talent in Vietnam during my time here. Their raw talent, coupled with their enthusiasm and willingness to learn, is truly humbling. Everyone involved in this project has a deep passion for the art form, which has helped them navigate the challenges of theater, especially musical theater.”
He went on to praise the young performers in Shrek, acknowledging the challenges they faced and their dedication to growth: “I feel very fortunate to be working with such talented individuals, and I can’t wait to see their continued growth in future projects.”
When asked about the challenges he faced during the production process, Jarrett highlighted the delicate balance between comedy and drama inherent to the show: “Shrek is a meta-comedy that parodies Broadway musicals, and finding the right tone was crucial. We had to take everything seriously to land the jokes and deliver the beautiful, touching moments effectively.”
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| Director Jesse Donaldson Jarrett shares his vision. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times |
As for his hopes for the audience’s experience, Jarrett said, “I want the audience to love the show as much as I do. I want them to feel the fun, the drama, and the touching resolutions. My wish is that we all share a love for the experience, and I’m excited to give Vietnam a taste of Broadway as we get closer to that golden professional standard.”
The director also shared his positive experiences in Hanoi, expressing his love for the city and its people. He praised the friendliness and helpfulness of the locals and shared his enjoyment of the local cuisine, including Hanoi’s famous beef noodle soup and egg coffee. Jarrett also explored the city’s iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and plans to travel to nearby localities like Quang Ninh or Ninh Binh after the project concludes.
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| Director Jesse Donaldson Jarrett at the sneak peek of Shrek: On National Tour. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times |
When asked about his vision for the arts industry in Vietnam over the next five years, Jarrett expressed his hope for a dramatic boom in the musical theater scene, bringing more opportunities for professionals in the industry. He noted the strong foundations for the artistic community and predicted a significant increase in the quality of performances, with a particular emphasis on the coherent use of lighting and sound to enhance the overall experience. Jarrett believes that this could spark a movement toward the creation of more Vietnamese works for the stage, paving the way for the next evolution of performing arts in the country.
The Hanoi Times expresses its gratitude for Jarrett’s time and insights, and we wish him and the entire cast and crew of Shrek: On National Tour the best of success with their upcoming performances.
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