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Shrek the Musical review: Bright, fun and lots of heart at Her Majesty’s Theatre

It takes two hours to transform Ben Mingay into lovable green ogre Shrek for stage — but all the effort pays off in a musical that is as fun as it is meaningful. Here’s what to expect from Shrek the Musical.

Ben Mingay's Shrek make-up transformation

Giant-sized fun, family entertainment is a guarantee in this colourful and comic production of Shrek the Musical.

Don’t be surprised if you giggle all the way through with the lovable ogre, Shrek, on his path to protect his haven swampland, only to make friends and fall in love along the way.

Some will detect the homage paid to classic Broadway musicals in various numbers, but the musical score can also just be enjoyed for its bright, swingy rhythms.

Key to its success is a great performance by Ben Mingay as Shrek.

Aside from mastering a heavy costume and prosthetics, Mingay’s tuneful gravel voice is a perfect match for the grumpy, wounded, big-hearted ogre.

Ben Mingay is well suited to the role of Shrek, complemented by Lucy Durack as Princess Fiona and Nat Jobe as Donkey. Picture: AAP Image/David Crosling.
Ben Mingay is well suited to the role of Shrek, complemented by Lucy Durack as Princess Fiona and Nat Jobe as Donkey. Picture: AAP Image/David Crosling.

His Shrek is more human than caricature and he always has the audience on side.

Most of the laughs, though, are reserved for Todd McKenney, who gives his all to the role of Lord Farquaad.

Though the sight gag may wilt towards the end, McKenney’s showmanship and comic skills make him shine as the villain in the piece.

Todd McKenney as Lord Farquaad is an audience favourite.
Todd McKenney as Lord Farquaad is an audience favourite.
The musical is a deft adaptation of the Shrek film.
The musical is a deft adaptation of the Shrek film.

Lucy Durack is as consistent as ever as Princess Fiona, showing a welcome tenderness when she reveals her character’s vulnerability.

Marcia Hines, as the dragon, won’t join this cast for another month or so but her understudy, Denise Devlin, sings well. Nat Jobe also makes a strong sidekick as Donkey.

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It’s hard to imagine this show disappointing either adults who grew up with the Shrek films or children who can be heard laughing throughout.

Shrek the Musical is fun for adults and kids alike. Picture: AAP Image/David Crosling.
Shrek the Musical is fun for adults and kids alike. Picture: AAP Image/David Crosling.
Some of the colourful characters on stage at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Shrek the Musical. Picture: AAP Image/David Crosling.
Some of the colourful characters on stage at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Shrek the Musical. Picture: AAP Image/David Crosling.

There are tap dancing rats, the three blind mice as glamorous back up singers and the gingerbread man is as cute as his gum drop buttons.

Aside from the colourful sets and costumes though, the show’s message is the biggest star – celebrating difference, vulnerability, not to judge by appearances and to always follow your heart.

Shrek the Musical

3.5 stars

Reviewer: Catherine Lambert, reviewed at preview on Tuesday, February 19.

Details: Her Majesty’s Theatre, Exhibition Street, Melbourne, until April 12.

Tickets: shrekthemusical.com.au

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Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/entertainment/arts/shrek-the-musical-review-bright-fun-and-lots-of-heart-at-her-majestys-theatre/news-story/e310b9c92bcb366dfc8fae0facfaf5f8