Swamplesque - Burlesque Shrek comes to the Edinburgh Fringe

It’s been 23 years since the Shrek franchise’s first theatrical release, and it remains a cultural phenomenon. The blockbuster animated film is still quoted and referenced by people who were not even alive when the first film came out, and a fifth installation is due to be released in 2026. For the impatient or the nostalgic, Swamplesque fills a Shrek-shaped void for fans of the outrageous, silly and ludicrous.

The award-winning, critically acclaimed burlesque show has taken Australia by storm and is now heading to the UK for a full Edinburgh Fringe run. In this wild parody of a film that itself wildly parodies classic fairytales, and the jokes are as layered as an onion. 

We caught up with Trigger Happy, who plays the ogre in Swamplesque, to find out more about their vision.

So, tell us. Why Shrek?   

I grew up watching the original movies and fell in love with them instantly. It's become a cult classic among my generation, like the Rocky Horror for 90’s babies. Everyone adores it – it’s endlessly quotable and meme-worthy, making it perfect for a burlesque and drag parody show. You know, 'onions have layers, ogres have layers' and what do burlesque performers do? They shed layers!

What can we expect? Songs, dances, lip syncs, stand up, burlesque? All of the above?

Swamplesque is a wild ride through everything you'd expect from a burlesque and drag parody show. We've curated a soundtrack packed with hits from the original movie, featuring stripping, lip-syncing, live singing, fire breathing, and even break dancing! It's a hilarious, sexy, heartwarming, and delightfully absurd experience all rolled into one.

How does it feel to be recognised as the winners of the Best Cabaret Awards in Adelaide and Perth?

Winning the weekly Best Cabaret awards in Adelaide and Perth was a surreal validation. We debuted at Perth Fringe World in 2020 and winning a weekly Best Cabaret award was beyond our expectations - it showed us that our quirky show really resonated with audiences and judges alike. Winning again at Adelaide Fringe, one of the world's largest fringe festivals, against such tough competition, solidified that our show stands out and brings joy to our audiences.

Why is showcasing performers of different ethnicities, genders, and body types important to you?

Growing up in the dance world, I often felt excluded because I didn't fit the typical 'skinny white' mould. Burlesque opened my eyes to a world where all body types and genders are celebrated. It's crucial for me to showcase diversity on stage so everyone can see themselves represented. I want every audience member to connect with a performer who reflects their own body type and leave the show feeling empowered and confident. To sum up why it is important to have all bodies represented on stage I’ll leave you with one of my favourite google reviews we’ve received “I don’t know how or why but as the show went on and even the next day I felt happier, lighter and more confident in my own self. You & your show is a little bit of magic” 

This is your UK debut – are you excited for the British audiences’ response?

We're absolutely thrilled to bring Swamplesque to the UK! Since going viral on TikTok, we've received hundreds of requests to perform there. The UK sense of humour aligns perfectly with ours, so we're confident they'll love the show. It's a perfect blend of hilarity and heart, and we can't wait to share it with a new audience.

Swamplesque will be performed at 10.20pm in Assembly Hall (Main Hall) from 1st – 25th August (Noy 12th or 19th) 

Booking link: https://assemblyfestival.com/whats-on/589-swamplesque