Shrek, that lovable Ogre brought to life in three films and one TV Christmas special by Mike Meyers is heading for the Broadway stage, but without that signature voice from the famous comedian and, even though there has been no major stage star attached to the role to date, indications are that the stageplay and lyrics written by David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori will be a long running hit.
“Shrek the Musical,” will showcase all the movie’s familiar characters from Shrek, Donkey and Princess Fiona, who will be portrayed by actress/singer Sutton Foster (“Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “Little Women”). Christopher Sieber (“Monty Python’s Spamalot”) will star as the evil Lord Farquaad and Kecia Lewis-Evans has been brought in to portray Donkey’s wife, the Dragon. Donkey, the role so perfectly performed by Eddie Murphy in the animated feature films, has yet to be cast as well.
The musical opens on Broadway this coming December 14th at the Broadway Theatre after a trial run at the Seattle based Fifth Avenue Theater from August 14 thru September 21, 2008.
One month before the show’s grand Broadway premiere it will give a preview performance on November 8th.
“Shrek the Musical” will be based purely on the book by William Steig, and loosely on the three popular movies. One character yet to be mentioned is Puss, played by Antonio Banderas in two of the movies. Banderas is a well established Broadway performer himself leading some to wonder if he will end up being attached to the musical. Lending his name to the project would only enhance its chances of being a big success once it hits the Great White Way.
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