Shrek was a successful animated film by DreamWorks in 2001. Later DreamWorks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions, Ltd. ventured into the theatre with a staged musical version of Shrek, with book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori, that opened in December, 2008.

Josh Prince's choreography brings childhood characters alive, and the superb cast of 26 (many who play multiple roles) all add up to an evening of exhilaration. Even though Shrek is a loner (because he feels he is an outcast), Eric Petersen turns him into a lovable character. Alan Mingo, Jr., who plays Donkey, is equally endearing as Shrek's overly talkative sidekick.

The lovely Haven Burton has a beautiful voice and is charming as Princess Fiona, and also proves her comic prowess. Lord Farquaad, too small to look into Princess Fiona's eyes, is performed by David F. M. Vaughn (on his knees, of course!) and adds special humor to the production. Credit goes to the following cast members who perform the many characters we all know from memories of childhood fairytales: Joe Abraham, Holly Ann Butler, Carrie Compere, Emily Cramer, Tyrone Davis, Jr., Sandra DeNise, Hayley Feinstein, David Foley, Aymee Garcia, Derek Hanson, Benjamin Howes, Cara Kem, Sean McKnight, Mara Newbery, Denny Paschall, Sarah Peak, Keven Quillon, Morgan Rose, Jason W. Shuffler, Blakely Slaybaugh, Danielle Soibelman and Julius Thomas III.

Many of the performers come to the Pantages Theatre from the original Broadway production. The one missing link in all of this wonderful creation is outstanding music and a song or two that one might go away singing, but nevertheless, it does not take away from the full enjoyment of the show. The Pantages Theatre is located at 6233 Hollywood Blvd. in Hollywood.

Shrek plays Tuesday through Thursday at 7:30 PM, Friday at 8 PM, Saturday at 2 PM and 8 PM, and Sunday at 2 PM and 6:30 PM. Tickets are available online at www.BroadwayLA.org, by phone at (800) 982-ARTS (2787), or at the Pantages Box Office which opens daily at 10 AM, and all Ticketmaster Outlets. Recommended for adults and children of all ages.