Step into the world of live theatre with "Standing Ovation," your trusted companion for navigating Asia's vibrant performing arts scene. From the neon-lit streets of Hong Kong to the historic stages of Manila, we're scouring the region to bring you honest, engaging reviews of the most talked-about shows. Whether you're drawn to the flawless elegance of ballet, embarking on a musical journey through moving tunes, or the raw emotion of dramatic plays, let us guide you to the performances that will resonate with you. So grab your playbill and join The Beat Asia as we immerse ourselves in the region's dazzling arts & culture scene. The curtain's rising – let the review begin!

The Kingdom of Far Far Away arrives in all its fairytale dazzle and signature humor as “Shrek the Musical” lights up the Newport Performing Arts theater stage at Newport World Resorts (NWR) Manila.

Based on the 1990 picture book by William Steig and the blockbuster film franchise from DreamWorks Animation, “Shrek the Musical” brings the beloved ogre back to the stage with all the charm, chaos, and heart fans adore. With music by Jeanine Tesori and book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire, the 2008 Broadway-original production has made its way to Manila through Musical Theatre International (MTI), delivering a larger-than-life theatrical experience for audiences of all ages. Under the direction of Dexter M. Santos, this local staging captures the spirit of the original while carving out its own delightful identity.

From its vibrant ensemble to its extravagant set pieces, this production of “Shrek the Musical” proves that familiar stories can still feel fresh when told with imagination, humor, and heart. The Beat Manila got to see this whimsical retelling, and here’s what we thought.

A Musical To Tickle Your Funny Bone

Shrek once said the ogres are like onions because they have layers. This musical is exactly that, layered with heartfelt storytelling, humorous lyricism, and stunning costumes and set designs, all tied together to form bombastic song and dance numbers performed by an incredible cast.

The show opened with a Once Upon a Time storybook and, unlike the film that launches straight into the heart of the action, we’re given a touching origin story. We meet a young Shrek being sent off by his parents on his seventh birthday, a rite of passage for ogres. It’s a small but meaningful shift that immediately adds emotional depth, showing us how he grew into the guarded, solitary ogre we know.

We also glimpse a seven-year-old Fiona, who’s similarly sent away to her tower where she waits for over than twenty years for true love’s rescue. Seeing both characters as children creates a parallel that the movie only hints at — two kids pushed into isolation long before their lives intertwine. Shrek’s “Big Bright Beautiful World” and Fiona’s “I Know It’s Today” serve as early emotional anchors, offering a fuller picture of their inner worlds before destiny pushes them together. Their romance feels less like a coincidence and more like fate quietly setting the stage. And when they finally meet, this shared history becomes another layer of connection.

Beyond their matching quirks and sense of humor, the musical highlights how both carry the ache of childhood loneliness. Their duet, “I Think I Got You Beat,” doesn’t just deliver laughs. It underscores a shared wound that makes their understanding of each other feel even more profound.

Krystal Kane’s performance was every bit magical with her clear princess tone and charming portrayal of the princess, while Jamie Wilson gave Shrek a rock n’ roll-like tone, which matched most of the songs, but there were moments when we felt like he was holding back on those high notes.

Of course, Shrek wouldn’t be Shrek without its unforgettable supporting cast, who, in this production, often felt like headliners themselves. One standout was Topper Fabregas as Donkey, who brilliantly brought Eddie Murphy’s iconic character to life. His vocal resemblance was uncanny; the intonations, comedic timing, and playful energy were all so spot-on that it felt like watching the animated Donkey leap straight onto the stage.

Alfredo Reyes’ Lord Farquaad was another show-stealer. It’s easily one of the most physically demanding roles in musical theatre, requiring the actor to sing, dance, and stay fully in character while performing on his knees to match Farquaad’s famously tiny stature. Yet the actor made it look effortless. His Farquaad was outrageous, charismatic, and undeniably hilarious. Despite being the story’s villain, Lord Farquaad quickly became a crowd favorite. The audience erupted during the uproarious “What’s Up, Duloc?” number, capped with a gleefully unexpected moment where he mimics Elphaba’s iconic “Wicked” battle cry. It was a cheeky twist that had the whole theater cheering.

The Dragon played by Julia Serad was also iconic — not only for the massive Dragon puppet that took up more than half the stage, but because of the voice behind it, which gave us chills with those jaw-dropping high notes. Of course, the Dragon would be a diva!

Lastly, the ensemble — a powerhouse group of 30+ singers and dancers — deserves its own standing ovation. They played everything from fairytale creatures to backup dancers, shifting roles with such energy that the stage never once felt empty. “Shrek the Musical” definitely boasts a larger cast than most productions, but believe us when we say: every single performer contributed something vital to the show’s charm and momentum. Together, they created the world that makes Shrek what it is: playful, vibrant, and delightfully chaotic.

Beyond the stellar musical numbers, impressive vocals, and crisp choreography, the stage and costume design fully transported us into this fairytale kingdom. Scene transitions were so seamless that we’d sometimes blink and suddenly find ourselves in an entirely new setting. Each backdrop felt intentional and visually distinct, keeping the experience fresh and immersive.

One highlight was Fiona’s tower, complete with a moving bridge over molten lava. Watching the bridge shift and connect as Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey escaped the Dragon felt cinematic — beautifully staged and surprisingly suspenseful. Even the forest scenes felt alive, with trees subtly repositioning and swaying as the actors moved across the stage.

We also loved the nods to the animated film, from the bird exploding as Fiona hit that famously high note to the sharp, funny exchanges between Shrek and Donkey about Lord Farquaad — little Easter eggs that delighted long-time fans.

The costumes paid homage to the original designs but added a theatrical polish that made them feel fresh. The ensemble especially shone in numbers like Fiona’s “Morning Person,” and the Three Blind Mice sparkled (literally) in their sequined silver dresses during “Make a Move.”

Shrek’s full look was another triumph — his green suit blended so naturally that it never read as a mask or costume but as part of the actor himself. This production clearly went all-out on the visual elements — perhaps to make up for the familiarity of the story — but whatever the reason, it worked. It was a feast for the eyes, and we were genuinely impressed by just how much artistry and effort went into every detail.

Final Verdict

Vibrant, fun, and extravagantly staged, “Shrek the Musical” is one holiday show you simply shouldn’t miss. Fans of the beloved film franchise will feel right at home with its chaotic song-and-dance numbers, sharp humor, and heartfelt storytelling. But this production also offers something deeper. Beyond the love story, it celebrates the beauty of embracing what makes you different.

The ensemble’s performance of “Freak Flag” is a standout moment. It's a triumphant anthem of individuality and self-acceptance that added an emotional layer to the story, one that was not directly explored in the film. It’s a reminder that the quirks, oddities, and “freaky” parts of ourselves are worth celebrating.

So, to all you “All Stars,” gather your friends and family and head to the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Spend a few hours laughing, smiling, and joining Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, and the rest of Far Far Away for a feel-good musical adventure that’s perfect for the season.

Shows are running till December 2025. You can buy your tickets here.

For updates on upcoming productions, follow NWR Musicals on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.

Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Standing Ovation reviews here.