Massey Theatre, New Westminster – April 18, 2026 (2pm matinee)
Shrek: The Musical is a lovable satire of traditional fairy tales. Turning those tales around with an unlikely hero while opening the door to possibility, it suggests that if those enduring fairy tale characters can break free from their assigned roles, so can you. As ogres, like onions, have layers, described by Shrek to his sidekick, Donkey, in the story’s hallmark line, so too does this musical. Layered above morals of courage, kindness and acceptance is a hilarious comedy for kids and adults alike. Full of parodies, pop culture references and just the right amount of silliness, each scene is delightfully entertaining.
This production of the musical (which originally debuted on Broadway in 2008) by the Royal City Musical Theatre Society, is directed by its artistic director Chris Adams, who gathers a talented cast and weaves their characters into a rich patchwork with precise comedic timing, letting each actor fully shine in their roles.
Tanner Zerr, as Shrek, maintains his stoic composure against his foil character, the persistently affectionate, hoof-fluttering Donkey, played in this show by understudy Tony Dizon. Zerr eventually reveals Shrek’s vulnerability, and his love for Princess Fiona, played by Madison Simms, who perfectly balanced the veneer of the fairy tale princess while harbouring an underlying edge. All vocals, particularly Simms, were expressive and outstanding. And then there was the indelible Lord Farquaad, the tyrannical narcissistic cowardly ruler of Duloc, played by Kamyar Pazandeh, who added just the right amount of absurdity to round out the main cast. Immediately hilarious, the actor kneels to achieve the diminutive stature while costume legs dangle in front. Pazandeh’s physical expressiveness was perfectly balanced, tilting back just enough to render the Lord in an egotistical yet compromised posture, with facial expressions and hand gestures too telling of Farquaad’s need for validation.
Not to be overlooked were key characters of the fairy tale ensemble, including Eric Timuss as the earnest Pinocchio, Kadia Kindersley as The Wicked Witch, Colton Avery Fyfe as the gruff-voiced Big Bad Wolf still grandma’s clothes, and Camille Griffiths with her scene stealing dancing as the Shoe Maker’s Elf.
Dance numbers, choreographed by Tracey Power, ranged from big Broadway tap to a retro 50’s styled trio for the Three Blind Mice, and more, which kept the pace fun and entertaining. Although the live orchestra, at times during the louder numbers, drowned out the vocals, the whole production was well done. Costumes and set gave extra vividness to this fairytale world.
Playing at the Massey Theatre April 17-May 3, 2026. Tickets and details here.