The Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film SHREK was brought to life on the stage of Parramatta’s Riverside Theatre as SHREK THE MUSICAL . Presented by Packemin Productions [Facebook] , the dynamic and diverse cast starred Play School’s loveable Jay Laga’aia as lead Ogre Shrek and acclaimed comedy and musical theatre performer Luke Joslin as the vain and bragging Lord Farquaad.

A large ensemble of over 45 singers and dancers emerged in the opening scene, immediately capturing the audience’s imagination with brilliantly detailed and unique costumes of ‘fairytale creature misfits’. Displaced from their homes and dropped into a swamp, first introductions included a high-pitched Pinocchio and a camp Mr. Wolf who strutted back and forth fabulously in one of ‘Grandma’s’ frilly nightgowns. Accompanied by a live Orchestra, the fairytale creatures maintained their optimism singing ‘Big Bright Beautiful World’, a heartwarming and catchy tune about hope and the beauty found in oddity.

Clever direction by Jessica Fallico and Craig Stewart was particularly enjoyed in Princess Fiona’s solo ‘I Know it’s Today’ as we saw the character transition from a 7 year old to an adult. Staged with three Fiona’s of different ages singing in beautiful harmony, the passing of time and exhaustive wait for her ‘rescuer’ was effectively captured.

True to Princess Fiona’s character in the much loved film, Mikayla Williams’ stage portrayal was the perfect combination of elegance and dorkiness. Humor aside, Williams’ vocal range and pure tone was truly incredible – a first-class musical theatre voice!

Nat Jobe’s Donkey was endearing and playful. Bursting with sass through animated hoove-gestures, it’s safe to say he successfully made an ass of himself. At half the height of other characters, Luke Joslin performed as Lord Farquaad on his knees with short puppet-like material legs dangling from hip to knee. Whilst on his knees Joslin hilariously danced, rode a horse and took a bubble bath, made even more funny with his acute black eyebrows and taut exaggerated facial expressions.

Shrek’s sizable and harsh exterior softens as a cheerful loved-up ogre emerges through the flirtatious duet ‘I Think I Got You Beat’, inclusive of a ‘burp-off’ where Princess Fiona nearly trumps Shrek.

With a well balanced mix of kiddy fart jokes and romantic comedy, plus amazing costumes such as the striking portrayal of Dragon through pink shimmery onesies, this is truly a show the whole family will love!

SHREK THE MUSICAL continues at Riverside Theatre until 17 February.