reviewvancouver: Shrek The Musical

Royal City Music Theatre
Shrek The Musical

When & Where April 17 – May 3, 2026 | The Massey Theatre, New Westminster. Tickets starting at $38.50 and available to purchase here.

Director Chris Adams Choreographer Tracey Power Musical Director Angus Kellett Lighting Designer Robert Sondergaard Sound Designer Rick Colhoun Props Designer Stephanie Barclay Prosthetics/Make-Up Designer Brooke Churchill Set Coordinator Emily Dotson Costume Coordinator Caitlyn Baird

Reviewer: Darren Cordeiro

On a sunny Sunday afternoon, my young niece and I headed to New Westminster for an uncle niece matinee date to see Shrek The Musical at the Massey Theatre, and we couldn’t have had more fun. The theatre was packed with people of all ages: grandparents and parents with their kids, adult friends reliving their childhood memories of the classic film, and vibrant young children dressed as their favourite Disney characters. In a world that often feels weighed down by negative news, it was heartwarming to see local British Columbians come together as a community to support this performance and simply enjoy a joyful, shared experience.

This musical is based on the popular DreamWorks Animation film Shrek, which is celebrating its 25th year since its release in 2001. The production itself felt high end, with a level of quality that rivals Broadway more than typical community theatre.

The singing and vocals were phenomenal, supported by a full live orchestra that brought the entire performance to life. The songs were lively and enhanced by synchronized dancing, featuring both energetic group numbers and powerful solo performances.

The costumes were thoughtfully designed, with the dragon portrayed by a dozen performers lifting and animating it in a style reminiscent of what you might see at an Asian festival. The quick costume changes were particularly impressive, especially when Fiona transformed from a princess to her green ogre self in just minutes. The story included many beloved fairy tale characters, all executed flawlessly, including Pinocchio, the Big Bad Wolf, the Three Little Pigs, and more.

Lastly, the set design was truly Broadway calibre, transitioning seamlessly from the forest to the castle, and most notably to the cathedral, where the illuminated stained glass during the wedding scene was especially striking.

If you are looking for a fun afternoon or evening out, whether with a friend or your children or grandchildren, this is the event for you. It was truly ‘Shrek-tacular’!