Adelaide Youth Theatre
Founded by Emma Riggs and Kerreane Sarti in 2010, Adelaide Youth Theatre has grown into one of Adelaide’s most vibrant platforms for emerging talent. Dedicated to nurturing the next generation of performers, the company provides opportunities for young people aged 7 to 25 to explore every facet of musical theatre through regular productions, skill-building training, and inclusive community initiatives that encourage creativity and confidence on and off the stage.
Shrek Jr brings together an all-male creative team —
Director Ethan Joy, Musical Director Ewan Pugh, and Choreographer Jordan Tyler
— a rarity in Adelaide musical theatre, where the balance often favors more
evenly across genders. However, this trio has approached the show with
admirable sensitivity, ensuring that the production never leans toward one
perspective but remains engaging and well-rounded. The moments requiring
emotional or physical intimacy were handled with care and thoughtfulness,
always mindful of the show’s young cast and audience.
Riley Mobbs brings a charming awkwardness to his take on
Shrek, effortlessly capturing the big-hearted ogre’s vulnerabilities. His characterisation — from the subtle gestures like belly scratches and ear-picks to the warm
humour that defines the role is what the audience went crazy for. His accent choice adds a fresh flavour to the
performance, setting his portrayal apart from more traditional versions.
As Donkey, Kyle Mobbs shines both vocally and comedically.
Refreshingly, his interpretation doesn’t mimic other famous versions but
instead feels entirely his own — bright, animated, and big-hearted. Numbers
like “Make a Move” and “Travelling Song” were crowd favourites, infectious in
both energy and fun.
Thomas White revels in every moment as Lord Farquaad,
milking the character’s over-the-top villainy with playful charm and
razor-sharp comedic timing. His flair for physical comedy and musicality brings
the pint-sized tyrant to life, and his cheeky “Defying Gravity” riff earned
well-deserved laughter from the audience. A genuine triple threat, White’s
performance reinforces how lucky Adelaide is to have such talented performers
on its stages.
Keira Wubbolts as Adult Fiona commands the stage with
confidence and a vocal strength that gives her magical princess real authority.
Her transformation sequence, accented by simple but effective lighting, worked
beautifully. The duet “I Think I Got You Beat” between Fiona and Shrek —
complete with the infamous fart and burp exchange — was perfectly timed and
absolutely hilarious, showcasing both actors’ strong comedic instincts. The
wedding sequence also landed superbly, with the slow-talking bishop providing
ideal pacing for the fairy-tale chaos tp arrive around him. Shoutouts go to
Jacqueline Siow and Mia Khairul as Young and Teen Fiona respectively, whose
expressive singing and acting built a wonderful foundation for Wubbolts’ appearance.
Olivia Emett displayed powerhouse vocals as Dragon — a
delightful surprise from such a young performer — while Alyssa Faranda (Gingy)
and Catherine Kilpatrick (Pinocchio) added heaps of fun and colour. The
inclusion of extra fairy-tale faces, including Dorothy and Sebastian, added to
the whimsy and charm of the world.
The Duloc dancers dazzled with precision and energy,
brushing off a minor wig mishap with admirable professionalism. The tap
routines were executed brilliantly, bringing a sparkle to the show that any
musical-lover would adore. The trio of storytellers — Ivy Tunnah, Zoe
Moncrieff, and Maree Fong — were consistently captivating, channelling a
“Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather” energy that lit up every scene.
The ensemble of fairy-tale creatures brought both volume and
vibrancy, their unified voices filling the theatre with joy. The balance
between backing tracks and live vocals was well-managed, allowing the cast’s
enthusiasm and skill to shine through clearly.
Technically, the production made excellent use of set pieces
and flys, creating a seamless flow from scene to scene. While there were a few
small lighting hiccups, they did little to distract from the magic unfolding
onstage. Ultimately, the entire cast radiated joy throughout the performance —
and that infectious sense of fun is what truly makes Adelaide Youth Theatre’s
Shrek Jr so successful.
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