Shrek the Musical Welcomes New Cast Members

Thursday, 10th Nov 2011  

Dean Chisnall and Neil McDermott Added to the Cast of the Blockbuster Musical in the West End

“Shrek The Musical” arrived in London’s West End earlier this year and has proved to be a popular show under the cast of Nigel Lindsay, Richard Blackwood, Nigel Harman and Kimberley Walsh (the latter replacing Amanda Holden as Princess Fiona last month). This cast is set to remain in place until February and after that two new additions have been announced as replacements for both Lindsay and Harman – Dean Chisnall and Neil McDermott.

Dean Chisnall has appeared in various productions over the years and has also served as an understudy for Shrek since it opened. When he steps into the role of Shrek he will do so on the back of various shows like “Love Never Dies” at the Adelphi Theatre, “La Cage Aux Folles” at the Playhouse Theatre, “The Woman in White” at the Palace Theatre and “Evita” at the Adelphi Theatre, among others. He also appeared in the musical based on the boy band Take That entitled “Never Forget”.

Neil McDermott, who replaces Nigel Harman as Lord Farquaad, has also appeared in various shows over the years, in addition to numerous television programmes. He is a familiar face to British television viewers with appearances in shows like “EastEnders” (as Ryan Malloy), “The Royal”, “Doctor Who”, “Casualty” and “Rosemary and Thyne”. His London theatre credits include “The Sound of Music” at the London Palladium, “Aladdin” at the Old Vic Theatre and “La Cague Aux Folles” at the Menier Chocolate Factory.

“Shrek the Musical” follows the plot of the original “Shrek” movie and focuses on the swamp-dwelling ogre of the title as he embarks on a memorable adventure alongside a wise-cracked new friend called Donkey. He is attempting to reclaim the deed on his land but winds up rescuing a princess instead, causing plenty of problems along the way.

“Shrek the Musical” continues at its home of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, and is currently booking at the venue until Sunday 16th December 2012. The new cast members join on Wednesday 29th February 2012.