Like us, you’re probably familiar with the DreamWorks animated film Shrek from the early ’00s, but how many of you have heard of Shrek the Musical? Based on the film, which in turn is based on William Steig’s book Shrek!, the musical follows the film closely, featuring songs that enhance the story, and bringing these characters we know and love to life on stage. Developed initially as a stage show in 2010, this musical features music from Jeanine Tesori and a book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire. This show is now touring across North America and recently stopped in the 313 as the first bonus show to Broadway in Detroit’s 2024-2025 season! So, of course, The Box Seat Babes had to jump on a podcast and break down the highlights of this family-friendly musical!
Listen as hosts RJ Miller-Zelinko and Brian Kitson talk about their history with the animated film version of Shrek, what stood out to them from this production, and how they felt about some of the changes to the story and jokes throughout the musical. Did the musical hold the same place in their hearts as the animated film? Check out the video below!
Catch Shrek the Musical when it comes to a city near you! Have you seen this musical before? What did you think of this episode? Let us know your thoughts on social media @mycosmiccircus and @boxseatbabes! If you enjoy this podcast, please consider sharing it with friends and following us on social media, or joining our Discord.
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Timestamps: Shrek the Musical discussion and review
- 00:00 – intro
- 01:41 – Childhood memories of watching the original Shrek movie
- 08:20 – Discussing the Shrek musical and the complicated logistics of adapting the film to stage.
- 11:20 – Changes from the original version of the musical
- 17:20 – Shrek’s backstory added to musical
- 19:41 – Lord Farquaad changes in the musical vs the original
- 23:43 – “Freak Flag”
- 25:01 – Comedic choices and changes in the musical
- 28:10 – Best performances in the recent North America tour stop in Michigan.
- 32:55 – The music in this show
- 38:16 – Staging and costume for Fiona’s transformation, the Dragon and other effects
- 44:16 – What is the rewatch value of this show?
- 48:50 – Coming up next for Broadway in Detroit: Moulin Rouge
- 01:02:00 – Outro
Recommended articles about Shrek the Musical
Shrek the Musical is a Children’s Storybook Come to Life
Exclusive Interview: Timmy Lewis Talks Shrek the Musical
Podcast credits and show notes
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