Showcase Entertainment Group’s Shrek The Musical at Arts Centre Melbourne bursts onto the stage with irrepressible energy, generous heart, and a delightfully cheeky sense of humour.
This is a production that understands exactly why audiences fell in love with the green ogre in the first place and then amplifies that affection with theatrical flair, musical polish, and an infectious sense of fun.
Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film, the musical reimagines Shrek’s swampy world as a vibrant live spectacle, brimming with colour, movement, and personality.
Under the assured direction and choreography of Jeremy Hinman, the show moves at a cracking pace, balancing laugh-out-loud comedy with moments of genuine warmth.
Catherine Hay’s musical direction ensures Jeanine Tesori’s Tony Award-winning score soars, from the buoyant optimism of I Know It’s Today to the rousing, self-affirming anthem Freak Flag.
Zac Parkes delivers a confident and charming performance as Shrek, capturing both the ogre’s gruff exterior and his quietly vulnerable heart. Opposite him, Kate Allnutt shines as Princess Fiona, deftly navigating the character’s comic bravado and emotional depth, particularly in the rollicking Morning Person.
Iosia Tofilau’s Donkey is an undeniable crowd-pleaser, effervescent, quick-witted, and vocally impressive; while Olly Humphries leans gleefully into the absurdity of Lord Farquaad with deliciously over-the-top flair.
Standout supporting performances abound. Jack Duff’s Pinocchio is mischievously endearing, Jocelyn Scott’s Dragon is both vocally powerful and playful, and Nomi Cohen brings surprising sweetness to Gingy. The ensemble, including a lively collection of fairytale misfits, fills the stage with character and cohesion, ensuring every moment feels alive and purposeful.
Visually, the production is a feast. The sets and costumes evoke a storybook world with a contemporary theatrical edge, transforming the Arts Centre Melbourne stage into a place where swamp meets spectacle.
Packed with laughs (the kids will love the burp and fart references), heart, and plenty of theatrical magic, Showcase Entertainment Group’s Shrek The Musical will leave a smile of your face long after you leave the theatre.
Shrek The Musical
Playhouse – Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Performance: Friday 9 January 2026 – 6.30pm
Following the Melbourne season, Shrek The Musical will play the Frankston Arts Centre (12 – 14 January), Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo (16 – 17 January) and Coliseum Theatre, Sydney (21 – 24 January). For more information, visit: www.shrekmusical.com.au for details.
Images: Shrek The Musical – courtesy of Showcase Entertainment Group