Journey out of the swamp and to the land of Far Far Away with Shrek, Donkey and Princess Fiona.

The animated film has been turned into a stage musical, with former Strictly star Joanne Clifton stepping into the Princess’ emerald shoes for six nights in Canterbury.

Shrek, released by Dreamworks in 2001, became a huge hit and spawned three sequels and two spin-off films.

The Academy Award-winning franchise is known for its star-studded cast, including Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz and Antonio Banderas.

The story follows anti-social ogre Shrek who sets off on a quest with his four-legged sidekick, Donkey, to rescue a princess in exchange for getting rid of the fairytale creatures that have taken over his beloved swamp.

The show, which features music by Tony Award-nominated composer Jeanine Tesori and lyrics by Pulitzer Prize winner David Lindsay-Abaire, has been adapted from the film’s original plot.

The familiar characters will be joined by a mixture of original music and songs from the film, including The Monkees’ I’m A Believer.

The UK tour sees Strictly Come Dancing champ Joanne Clifton star as Princess Fiona.

Since leaving the BBC dance competition - which she won with TV presenter Ore Oduba - in 2016, the former ballroom and Latin professional has appeared in a number of stage shows such as Thoroughly Modern Millie, the Rocky Horror Show and the Addams Family.

In 2021, she also took on the role of the Fairy in the Marlowe Theatre’s Christmas pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk.

She will perform in Shrek alongside a cast of West End actors, including Antony Lawrence (The Lion King), James Gillan (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie) and Brandon Lee Sears (Dreamgirls).

Shrek the Musical will be at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury from Monday, April 29 to Saturday, May 4. You can book tickets online here.

You can also book tickets by calling 01227 787787.