Unashamedly commercial blockbusters based on hugely profitable films start with a disadvantage. But Jason Moore's and Rob Ashford's well-drilled production chips away at the cynicism until resistance is futile. The charismatic double act that is Nigel Lindsay's green ogre and Richard Blackwood's talking donkey do their bit. But what really lifts this show is Nigel Harman's Lord Farquaad, a baddy with huge ego but tiny legs (Harman plays the role on his knees). It is a show-stealing performance. And once aloft Shrek stays there, helped by Jeanine Tesori's and David Lindsay-Abaire's witty score.
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