Nigel Lindsay and Nigel Harman are to leave their roles as Shrek and Lord Farquaad in Shrek The Musical at the end of February, to be replaced by Dean Chisnall and Neil McDermott.
Lindsay and Harman have been playing the ogre and the diminutive lord at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane since the musical opened there in May this year.
New Shrek Chisnall is also an original cast member, having been part of the ensemble since the show began, understudying the leading role he is now to make his own. Chisnall’s other stage credits include Love Never Dies, La Cage Aux Folles, Evita and Never Forget in the West End.
McDermott joins the cast afresh, after making his name playing Ryan in TV soap EastEnders. His previous stage work includes La Cage Aux Folles at the Menier Chocolate Factory and The Sound Of Music at the London Palladium.
Based on the hit Dreamworks film, Shrek tells the story of a solitary swamp-dwelling ogre, who is forced to fight for his land against the distasteful plans of Lord Farquaad. Along with a wise-cracking donkey, Shrek must embark on a fearful mission to slay a dragon and rescue a princess, in order to reclaim his swamp.
Chisnall and McDermott, who take over the roles from 29 February, will join existing cast member Richard Blackwood as Donkey. Girls Aloud singer Kimberley Walsh is currently playing Princess Fiona.
CB