Shrek-tacular show in June

KUALA LUMPUR: The Tourism Ministry is officially lending its support to Shrek The Musical, anticipating the show to be a Shrek-tacular event. The musical is set to bring in an estimated revenue of RM26mil to the country, according to Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB).

MyCEB was established in 2010 as part of the Economic Transformation Programme by the ministry to specifically bid and secure international events. At the press launch of the musical at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre yesterday, MyCEB general manager Tony Nagamaiah said that at least 3,000 foreign tourists were expected to flock to Kuala Lumpur the show's only stop in South-East Asia. “By 2020, MyCEB's objective is to showcase Malaysia as the global centre for international events. It is important that we look at events that can bring in high returns to the country,” said Nagamaiah.

Brought in by Yvents! from the United States, the musical is based on the 2001 Oscar-winning animated Dreamworks film Shrek that centres on the life of a widely-feared green ogre who falls in love with a beautiful princess. Nagamaiah lauded Yvents! for raising Malaysia's profile as a destination for global events. “Our partnership with Yvents! for Shrek The Musical is a great example of a public-private initiative,” he added. Yvents! managing director Yvette Kang expressed her gratitude to MyCEB and the ministry. “Without their support, it really would have been an uphill task for us to bring a show of this size to Malaysia,” she said.

Currently playing to rave reviews in London's West End, Shrek The Musical will feature 19 original songs and beloved characters like Donkey, Lord Farquaad and a host of fairy tale creatures as well as spectacular costumes and sets. The Star is the media partner for the show while HSBC Bank is the official credit card. Also present at the event was The Star managing editor June H. L. Wong.

Shrek The Musical will play at Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, from June 19 to 24. Tickets, priced at RM190, RM290, RM390, RM490 and RM590 (excluding RM3 ticketing fee), are available from TicketsPeople at 03-2287 2727, ticketspeople.com or at the information counter at Bangsar Village, Kuala Lumpur. HSBC credit card holders will enjoy a 10% to 15% discount.
-thestar online.