After Seattle Tryout, Shrek the Musical to Bow on Broadway in Fall 2008

Shrek the Musical has announced a world premiere engagement at the 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle from August 14 to September 21, prior to beginning previews on Broadway in early November. The show will be directed by Jason Moore Avenue Q and choreographed by newcomer Josh Prince. No casting or Broadway theater has been announced.

Shrek the Musical features a book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire Rabbit Hole, High Fidelity and music by Jeanine Tesori Caroline, or Change; Thoroughly Modern Millie. Based on the story and characters from William Steig's book Shrek! and the first of three Shrek movies from DreamWorks Animation released in 2001, the musical features the title character, a lovable swamp-dwelling ogre; his wisecracking sidekick, Donkey; the lovely Princess Fiona; Lord Farquaad and a chorus of everybody's favorite fractured fairytale creatures.

The musical is being produced by DreamWorks Theatricals and Neil Street Productions and represents DreamWorks Animation's first venture in legitimate theater. The production was initiated by Jeffrey Katzenberg, CEO of DreamWorks Animation, and director Sam Mendes, who has a long-term relationship with the company. Mendes, a big fan of the first Shrek film, suggested the idea of creating a musical to Katzenberg around the time the second film was in production.

Shrek the Musical's creative team include will include Tony Award-winning set and costume designer, Tim Hatley and three-time Olivier Award-winning lighting designer, Hugh Vanstone. Tim Weil is serving as music director.