Unpeeling the layers of Shrek the Musical

Everyone’s favourite ogre is coming to Kwinana this month as the beloved Broadway hit Shrek The Musical comes to Koorliny Arts Centre from Friday, November 14, to Saturday, November 22. Based on the 2001 Oscar-winning DreamWorks film, the stage adaptation transforms the classic fairy-tale adventure into a hilarious, high-energy spectacle packed with heart, humour, and catchy tunes—with tickets on sale now. NATASHA PAUL caught up with the show’s leads, Daniel Burton (Shrek) and Ciara Taylor (Princess Fiona), to talk about stepping into these iconic roles, the joy of performing with a talented local cast, and what audiences can look forward to when this larger-than-life story hits the stage.

How are you both feeling about bringing Shrek to life onstage at Koorliny Arts Centre?

Ciara: I’m so excited—and a little nervous—because it’s such a well-known and well-loved movie. But mostly, I’m incredibly proud of our cast. We’ve all worked so hard, and I can’t wait for audiences to see this amazingly talented group bring the swamp to life!

Daniel: I’m thrilled. It’s a dream role and a huge challenge, both literally and figuratively! The Koorliny community has been incredibly supportive, and it’s exciting to bring such a larger-than-life world to the stage in a way that feels fresh while still honouring the original film.

The musical reimagines the 2001 fairytale film with laughter, swamp magic, and catchy songs. What’s most exciting about your version of Shrek The Musical?

Ciara: Our version has so much heart and humour. It’s big, bold, and a little bit cheeky, but there are also really beautiful, emotional moments between the characters that give it depth.

Daniel: We’ve worked hard to make it more than just a stage copy of the movie. There’s real depth in these characters and a strong sense of community on stage that you can really feel. Everyone involved genuinely loves theatre, and I think that passion shines through in every scene.

Tell us about preparing for your roles. Was it challenging to become a grumpy ogre and a feisty princess?

Ciara: Fiona is such a fun mix; she’s sassy, strong, a bit awkward, and deeply hopeful. Funnily enough, I actually found the “princess” moments the most challenging! I’ve had the most fun exploring her awkwardness, sass, and big personality.

Daniel: The biggest challenge for me was definitely the physicality—moving and speaking as Shrek while wearing all the prosthetics and padding! But it’s also been a joy to explore his emotional side. Beneath all those layers—literally—he’s a character about love, acceptance, and self-worth. His character arc is so in-depth, and there is so much growth and development that happens throughout the show.

What was it like working together to portray Shrek and Fiona’s love story?

Ciara: It’s been so much fun bringing Shrek and Fiona’s story to life. Working with Daniel has been such a joy—he’s a kind, generous actor and collaborator, and the whole process has been incredibly enjoyable.

Daniel: Shrek and Fiona’s relationship is full of hilarious misunderstandings and sweet surprises. I think we’ve worked really well together to create a dynamic relationship, which is so easy when working with someone as kind and open as Ciara. It has been an absolute pleasure.

Shrek The Musical premiered on Broadway in 2008 and won a Tony Award. How does it feel to be part of that legacy?

Ciara: It’s surreal! This show has such a legacy, and we’re so lucky to bring it to life for a new audience. Sutton Foster is my idol and biggest theatre inspiration; I’ve tried to bring a mix of Fiona from the film, Sutton’s version, and my own authentic self to make her truly come alive.

Daniel: It feels so surreal; it’s particularly special because I’m a huge Brian d’Arcy James fan. To be playing a role that he originated is honestly a dream come true. This has been a bucket list show and role for me. I actually played Dan in Next to Normal, so I’m slowly ticking off the roles that Brian has made famous! It’s surreal and humbling to follow in his footsteps while also bringing my own take to the swamp.

Any memorable or hilarious rehearsal moments?

Ciara: So many! There’s been constant laughter in rehearsals, especially during our iconic burp and fart-off in I Think I Got You Beat. That’s definitely been my favourite moment—it’s just pure, joyful chaos.

Daniel: My most memorable moment was hearing the orchestra play the overture for the first time; the music in this show is incredible. I’ve also loved all my scenes with Donkey (Bailey). We start off working in opposition, which makes for some hilarious moments. He’s an incredible actor and absolutely hilarious on and off stage.

Do either of you have any exciting future projects, on stage or otherwise?

Ciara: After Shrek, I’ll be diving straight into directing my upcoming school production—which, funnily enough, is Shrek! But I’ll definitely be taking a little rest first before jumping back into teacher mode.

Daniel: I’ve got a few exciting projects coming up, though none I can share just yet. For now, I’m enjoying being an ogre while I can—it’s been an unforgettable experience.

Shrek The Musical hits Koorliny Arts Centre from Friday, November 14, to Saturday, November 22, 2025. Tickets are on sale now from koorliny.com.au

Photo by Outatime Pictures