There’s always a worry when going to see a stage version of a popular film, cartoon or TV series that the essence of the original might get lost in transition. But when you actually stop and think about it, todays popular entertainment has its roots in the stage and whereas you may not always get the big box office draw stars appearing you can bet your bottom dollar that theres a cluster of fresh acting and musical talent who will exceed your expectations.

Such can be said for Shrek The Musical, currently playing Bristol Hippodrome until September 7. Our anti-hero Shrek the ogre and his loyal steed Donkey embark on a quest to rescue the beautiful Princess Fiona from a fire breathing dragon, following an agreement with the diminutive Lord Farquaad, that a cavalcade of fairy tale misfits will be removed from Shrek’s swamp if he successfully completes the mission.

With music and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori, Shrek The Musical not only recreates the story of the first Shrek movie but adds a flavour of music and dance to the mix giving the family favourite a new dimension.

Dean Chisnall delivers Shrek for the stage with a neat balance of humour, sentimentality and a strong singing voice while Faye Brookes proves a versatile female lead as Princess Fiona encompassing comedy, dance and flair in one fell swoop.

Gerard Carey is the perfect slightly camp, mini villain Lord Farquaard that the audience simply love to loathe. Gerard delivers most of the performance on his knees (due to the characters reduced height) but utilises this to full comic potential, particularly during song and dance numbers.

Similarly Idris Kargbo, gives an energetic performance as Donkey, retaining the comic essence of Eddie Murphy from the films while encompassing the energy of a young Sammy Davis Jr for the stage.

Highlighting four major leads cannot overshadow the stunning work of the supporting ensemble cast who appear as the colourful fairy tale characters, guards of Duloc and a phenomenal dragon over various choreographed scenes in the show, the strongest perhaps been Morning Person at the beginning of Act II which highlights James Winter as the Pied Piper opposite Faye Brookes in an amazing routine that moves encompasses tap dance and mood music.

As there are currently no scheduled dates for Shrek the Musical to appear in Wales why not make this a memorable last event in the Summer Holiday calendar before the children return to school?

The show is recommended for ages 5+ To book tickets contact 0844 871 3012 or visit www.atgtickets.com/bristol