Hit West End show coming to the Mayflower Theatre

Shrek the Musical will be heading to The Mayflower in Southampton as part of its first ever tour of the UK and Ireland, the Daily Echo can exclusively reveal.

The larger-than-life production, a huge hit in London, will be directed by former EastEnder Nigel Harman, who starred as Lord Farquaad in the West End production, winning him the 2012 Laurence Olivier Award for Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical.

Based on the award-winning DreamWorks animation film, the show joins unlikely hero Shrek and his loyal steed Donkey as they embark on a quest to rescue the beautiful (if slightly temperamental) Princess Fiona from a fire-breathing, lovesick dragon.

Add to the mix the diminutive Lord Farquaad, a gang of fairytale misfits, and a biscuit with attitude and you have a family comedy adventure for the summer of 2015.

Shrek the Musical features all new songs, including the cult anthem I’m a Believer.

Nigel Harman, who was at The Mayflower last week judging the Ghost cast’s one-off Children in Need dancing special, told the Daily Echo: “I am delighted to be returning to Shrek as its director.

“This show is very special to me with its dizzying blend of great characters, a hilarious script and sublime music.

“This production is visually stunning, and the story has the magic ingredient of moving at great pace while still being surprisingly intimate.

“In short, there was no way I was going to say no to the challenge of realising the production for the UK and Ireland. I really can’t wait to take this show on the road!”

Shrek the Musical runs from July 8 to 26, 2015. Tickets go on sale on Friday, November 22.