Broadway Academy’s Shrek The Musical Jr.

Photo by Hello Muse

Broadway Academy is no stranger to putting on crowd-favourite performances for all-

age audiences—and they’ve done it again with their swamp-tacular production of

Shrek The Musical Jr. Overflowing with energy, colour, and heart, this bog-brilliant

show proves once more why Broadway has such a stellar reputation in the local

theatre scene.

With a large pool of budding talent to draw from, Broadway’s production boasts a

dual cast: the Sapphire and Emerald casts. It was the Sapphire cast who had the

honour of opening the first of four performances, with the remaining three already

close to selling out. A packed house of family, friends, and excited theatregoers

created a buzz that could be felt from the front row to the back of the swamp.

Director Carla Lejarraga and her extensive production team of vocal and

choreography directors and stage crew have clearly poured a fairy tale-sized amount

of effort into preparing both casts for this toe-tapping adventure. The result is a well-

oiled, high-energy performance that showcases not just the talent of the individual

cast members, but the magic of a strong ensemble working together in harmony.

Ashley Davis, a seasoned performer, was perfectly cast as Shrek—his gruff-yet-

lovable ogre finding himself ogrewhelmed by a host of evicted fairy tale creatures

who’ve turned his peaceful bog upside-down. Davis carried the role with charisma

and comedic timing that had the audience hooked from his first grumble.

Jack Kelly was a standout as Donkey, bouncing with energy and quick wit. His

hilarious delivery had the audience giggling every time he trotted on stage. There’s

no doubt this dynamic young performer is one to watch as he continues to refine his

craft.

As Princess Fiona, Violet Lejarraga brought sparkle and sass to the role. Her spirited

journey from imprisoned princess to empowered heroine—and her charming

chemistry with both Shrek and Donkey—was delightful to witness.

Cooper Jones delivered an excellently villainous Lord Farquaad, managing to draw

laughter and groans in equal measure with his larger-than-life portrayal. And Jennifer

Bonner’s powerful vocals as the Dragon wowed the audience, especially during her

tender moments teased out by Donkey’s surprising sensitivity.

The show’s magic extended beyond its performers. The incredible costumes, crafted

by the creative team at The Dressing Room TSV, transformed the cast into a

captivating parade of fairy tale creatures, royal guards and maids, and magical

misfits. Particular shoutout goes to the awe-inspiring Dragon costume, designed by

Andrea Blackman and brought to life on-stage by a five-person team—an absolute

showstopper.

Blackman’s set designs, constructed by Mick Lejarraga, whisked the audience away

to Shrek’s bog, Duloc, and beyond, immersing us fully in the whimsical world of the

story.

As Donkey might say, people (and musicals) are like onions—or parfaits—full of

layers. And this show is no different. Shrek The Musical Jr. offers something for

everyone, from the wide-eyed youngsters to the “big kids” in the audience who

laughed just as hard. It’s a reminder that we all deserve our happily ever after, even

if it comes with a bit of mud and mischief along the way.

With the Emerald cast set to take the stage next, there’s no doubt they’ll bring just as

much energy and heart to this fairy tale romp. So much time, passion, and swampy

sparkle has gone into this production—and it’s paying off in spades for everyone

lucky enough to be part of it or to witness it.