Shrek the Musical Jr review by Beth KleinThe Young Australian Broadway Chorus’s (YABC) big, bold production of Shrek the Musical Jr featured rousing chorus numbers, cheeky humour, and an energetic and talented cast.Based on the original animated movie voiced by Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy, Shrek (Tristan Sicari) and Donkey (Aidan Khan) promise to rescue Princess Fiona (Jasmine Arthur) from the clutches of a terrifying dragon (Kristen Robertson), so that Lord Faquaad (Lachlan Wolters) can marry her and become King. The ambitious self-serving Farquaad would then reward Shrek by giving him back the swamp that was inundated with fairytale characters the Lord had banished from Duloc.The stunning cast entertained from start to finish with solid all-round performances. Sicari and Khan stayed true to the Myers and Murphy characterisations which for the most part worked. Can’t imagine Shrek without a Scottish accent and while Khan was fabulous, attempting to mimic the greatness that is Murphy had its dangers.Nevertheless Khan displayed a confidence and comic presence vital to the role.Arthur flirted with the audience with vigour and great humour, and Wolters mastered his dastardly character to great effect.Perhaps the brightest star was the glorious Kristen Robertson - resplendent in her divine dragon costume. Her powerful vocals were a standout. The ensemble cast gave it their all and their energy and enthusiasm was stirring.Particularly enjoyable were the cleverly staged chorus numbers including Story of My Life by the fairytale outcasts, featuring a noteworthy Dijana Razumic as Pinocchio, and What’s up Duloc.This production at the Union Theatre may have been all about the kids but there was some serious grown-up talent that inspired this marvellous production, including Director Robert Coates, Choreographer Jacqui Green, Musical Director Andy Coates and the magnificent costumes by Jennifer McKenzie.