Film & Theatre, Reviews | Posted on June 26th, 2026 | return to news

REVIEW: Shrek the Musical

Wimborne Musical theatre Society, Tivoli Theatre, Thursday 25 June

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

What a challenge – to assemble a huge cast and to ensure that they are all in the right place on the stage at the right time. It is a big ask for any director, but Duncan Trew cracks it in this funny, feel-good story of the grumpy yet kind-hearted ogre looking for love.

There are seven main cast members, 21 other senior actors, plus two teams of nine alternating junior cast members, not to mention all the numerous creatives behind the scenes of this production.

On the opening night, the audience was cool in this air-conditioned theatre, and although most of the cast wore complicated and very thick outfits – there was no sign of any discomfort in their performances.

If this company thought it was a gamble, it certainly pays off in spades. Hugely enjoyable was the murmur from people as they left the theatre.

Clearly it isn’t possible to mention everyone, so I will just highlight the seven main characters.

Making his debut with Wimborne Musical theatre Society is Jack Hosking-Ellis as Shrek, who had the ambition to play the character since the age of four. It is a commanding performance which reaches new heights in the second half of the show.

Selina Rumbold makes a delightful Princess Fiona with a voice as clear as a bell, whilst Jemma Cable provides much fun as the hoarse-voiced Pinocchio.

How David Swain manages to keep his cool in his donkey costume is amazing, as are his antics. Oh so lovable, he provides lots of humour.

What can I say about Alan Colclough as the diminutive Lord Farquaad? This must have been one of the most challenging parts in his long career, as his costume requires him to move around on his knees, with false short legs – you have to see it to believe it.

A consummate professional, Alan can turn his talents to such a huge variety of parts, and he also has a very good singing voice to add to his acting ability. He is funny and menacing in equal measure.

And then we have two excellent voices from Lauren Ferger-Andrews as Gingy and Charlotte Squibb as the Dragon.

The junior cast members on the first night, particularly the young and teen Fionas, were so accomplished.

I know readers will be looking for a mention of our editor Luke Graham – this is the first time I’ve reviewed a production featuring a member of staff. All I will say is that he and all the other 20 members with smaller parts act their socks off with every appearance.

So much energy from everyone with brilliant, over-the-top costumes – wow.
You must get a ticket.

The show is on tonight at 7.30pm, and twice on Saturday at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Book your ticket from https://www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk/events/wmts-shrek-the-musical.