The touring musical of Shrekfollows the characterizations of the Dreamworks film and most of the plot of the Broadway musical about the titular ogre. Basically, the inciting incident is Shrek being thrown out of his house by his parents to make life on his own. They predict he’ll be disliked by everyone and thus will lead a perpetually unhappy life.
After a bit of roaming, Shrek meets a lot of fairy tale characters exiled by Lord Farquaad. He wants to marry Princess Fiona, so he’s trapped her in a castle prison guarded by a dragon. Shrek, accompanied by pesky, stubborn Donkey, sets out to free Fiona. Complications a-plenty ensue in which Shrek helps other storied creatures but gets help to triumph from a Fairy Godmother as does Fiona.
Eighteen songs, mostly accompanying dances and related movement -- especially during travels, lead to the “Big Bright Beautiful World” that’s been predictable from the start. That the songs aren’t memorable doesn’t mean they’re not suitable and pleasant. Moreover, here they’re played by a live orchestra and sung well.
Costumes faithful to and elaborating on the original cartoon designs are complemented by just right make-up. The well-lit scenery, constantly changing, is especially complex and detailed for a road show. The definitely non-Equity cast, of recent college grads in the main, makes up for experience with enthusiasm and energy. It was easy to see and hear everyone and everything from the last rows of the Van Wezel Hall, which isn’t always known for the best sound projection.
