“Shrek – The Musical”
Nottingham Theatre Royal

"Shrek" is the story of the swamp-dwelling Scottish ogre who, in a faraway kingdom, embarks on a life-changing adventure in order to reclaim the deed to his land.

Joined by a wise-cracking donkey who won't shut up, this unlikely hero - not a handsome prince - fights a fearsome dragon, rescues the feisty Princess Fiona and learns that real friendship and true love aren't only found in fairy tales.

This show, which I saw when it came to Nottingham in 2014 and loved it then, is just perfect for any age audience member. It’s full on entertainment and energy. It's been updated in parts to keep it fresh, but you'd have had to have seen it before to notice the subtle changes.

The costumes are wonderful, full of colour, and there are so many of them. The intricate costumes and the whole feel of the show bring to mind pantomime.

Steffan Harri (Shrek) has boundless energy, even in that costume and heavy green make up, and his vocals are spot on and his version of “Who I’d Be” was superb. He has perfected the Scottish accent, no one would have guessed that he is a natural Welshman?

Amelia Lily (Princess Fiona) did not fail to put a smile on my face. I knew that her vocals would be great as I’d followed her from “The X Factor” and her recording career, but her stage work is also pretty impressive as well. There's even a nod to her "X Factor" past if you look in the right direction!! the humour in her role is a very natural one and, as all of them do, she looks to be having a ball on stage.

Marcus Ayton (Donkey), I can remember from four years ago and he made me smile then, and he’s still doing it as this lovable, goofy companion who is full of sass. You can't help but smile when he is on stage.

Samuel Holmes (Lord Farquaad) gives a very physically demanding character-driven performance, especially when you consider he is acting on his knees. He may be the smallest character, size wise, but he is big on entertainment with his quick wit and posh accent. What I also love about this character is the way his humour, in true panto style, is partly pitched just over the children's heads so that the adults get the funny side as well.

The puppetry sections are mesmerising, as are the sets and costumes, all the hard work of Tim Hatley. Naomi Donne is a wizard as the make up designer.

The large ensemble pieces are some of the best I’ve seen in musical theatre, and the choreography by Josh Prince is timed to perfection.

Directed by Nigel Harman, who actually originated the role of Lord Farquaard in the West End gives the show a very tight feel. there's no hanging around and the scenes are changed with fluidity and ease.

Colm O’Regan is the Musical Director and the sound was perfectly mixed making this show very pleasant on the ear, coupling the very visual presentation wonderfully. Hugh Vanstone's lighting design tops everything off beautifully.

A brilliant show for a family night out which cleverly hides a moral message withing the entertainment. With comedy for both kids and adults - which includes burp and fart jokes as well as a smattering of sauce - this is a show that will become a talking point for the family, even after you've left the theatre.

“Shrek – The Musical” is at the Nottingham Theatre Royal until Sunday 23 September 2018.