Swamplesque at Assembly Main Hall Review
Written by Liam Arnold for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
There’s something deliciously inevitable about Swamplesque, the gloriously absurd Shrek-themed burlesque that has shimmied its way onto the stage. Created by Australia’s award-winning burlesque star Trigger Happy, this production is exactly what you’d hope for—and then some. A riotous collision of drag, striptease, and shameless nostalgia, it delivers an hour of unapologetic fun that celebrates both DreamWorks’ iconic ogre and the liberating spirit of burlesque.
From the moment the lights dim, the show commits to its premise with gleeful abandon. Shrek himself kicks things off by shedding layers (yes, down to a thong), setting the tone for what follows: a parade of beloved characters reimagined through sequins, sass, and skin. Donkey shimmies in velour, Gingy the Gingerbread Man vogues to the Pussycat Dolls’ Buttons, and the Man in the Mirror (complete with a jaw-dropping aerial sequence) is pure spectacle. The costumes alone are a triumph—mirrored panels, lush velvets, and green sequins galore—each piece a loving homage to the source material before being (inevitably) shed with theatrical flair.
The cast’s energy is infectious, and their talents are undeniable. Tash York stands out as Princess Fiona, bringing powerhouse live vocals that elevate the production beyond its lip-synced foundations. Meanwhile, the choreography strikes a perfect balance between campy humour and genuine artistry—whether it’s a pirouetting Shrek stripping to Hallelujah or a knee-high Lord Farquaad commanding the stage with flamboyant menace. The song choices are pitch-perfect, weaving Shrek’s classic soundtrack (where is I’m a Believer, though?) with cheeky pop hits that keep the crowd cheering.
What makes Swamplesque truly special, though, is its unwavering sense of joy and inclusivity. Every body type is celebrated, every performer radiates charisma, and the audience is swept up in the revelry from the first beat. It’s a show that doesn’t just wink at its own absurdity—it embraces it with open arms (and fewer clothes.
If there’s a critique to be made, it’s that the production occasionally leans a little too heavily on its gimmick. Some transitions feel abrupt, and the reliance on film clips (rather than more live interaction) keeps it from reaching full parody potential. A dash of improv or deeper Shrek 2 references (we’re holding out for a hero!) could have made it great.
But these are minor quibbles. Swamplesque knows exactly what it is—a silly, sexy, glitter-drenched love letter to Shrek and burlesque—and it delivers that vision with wit, warmth, and a whole lot of skin. Whether you’re a die-hard Shrek fan, a burlesque enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates the sight of an ogre in pasties, this show is a must-see.
A riotous, feel-good triumph that proves even the swampiest fairytales deserve a little sparkle.
★★★★ — A Must See!
