Family-friendly production Shrek the Musical is set to grace the stage at Southampton Mayflower Theatre later this month

OGRE-sized fun is in store for audiences as Shrek the Musical arrives at Southampton Mayflower Theatre later this month.

Set in the magical land of Far Far Away, the family-friendly musical show follows Shrek and his trusty sidekick Donkey as they set out on a quest to defeat the fearsome dragon and rescue the beautiful Princess Fiona.

Featuring a toe-tapping soundtrack of fabulous songs including I’m A Believer, Big Bright Beautiful World, and I Know It’s Today, alongside a heart-warming storyline, and a cast of unforgettable characters, the feel good show will appeal to all ages.

The cast is led by theatre legend Antony Lawrence as Shrek, whose previous credits include The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Matilda the Musical, and We Will Rock You.

Alongside him, Strictly Come Dancing star and leading lady Joanne Clifton will play Princess Fiona, Olivier-Award nominated James Gillan will play the role of the evil Lord Farquaad, and Brandon Lee Sears will play the lovable Donkey. Completing the principal cast is rising star Cherece Richards as the Dragon.

Antony Lawrence said: “The story of Shrek is about not needing to change who you are to fit in in the world, you just need to be yourself.

“It’s an age old human story – even though we’re seeing a green ogre and a donkey and all these fairytale creatures – there’s so much in there that people can connect to.

“Children will see the show and see the magic of these characters, then as adults you see the undertones of everything.”

Joanne Clifton added: “The Mayflower is where I saw Shrek the Musical and realised I wanted to play Fiona.”

From the producers of Hairspray and Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Shrek the Musical brings together a new creative team who have reimagined the award-winning Broadway and West End hit show for a new audience, featuring all the classic characters from the Oscar- winning DreamWorks animated film and the iconic songs and story from David Lindsay- Abaire and Jeanine Tesori’s original musical.

The team who have joined forces to recreate the bright and beautiful world of Shrek the Musical includes acclaimed director and choreographer Nick Winston and co-director Sam Holmes who returns to the swamp having played Lord Farquaad in the previous UK tour.

Tickets for Shrek the Musical, which runs from 20th to 25th February, cost between £24.50 to £49.50, with family discounts available.

To book visit http://mayflower.org.uk or call the box office on 02380 711811.