Behind the scenes: Shrek the Musical

"Shrek the Musical" is taking over the Progress Energy Center through Sunday. Out and About had a chance to step into the makeup room with actor Perry Sook as he prepped for Wednesday night's show. 

Backstage with Shrek

Among the things we learned about Shrek: 

• It isn't easy being green! Perry wears a prosthetic cap that covers his head and surrounds his face. Makeup artist Michael Ferguson then applies green makeup to Perry's face. 
• There are 19 prosthetic head pieces for Shrek. While Perry only wears one at a time, the pieces need maintenance. So, extras are always around just in case. 
• The nose is really important. Ferguson said that the distinctive prosthetic nose always makes the character come alive.
• Ogres use hairdryers and airbrush machines. To help dry the makeup, Michael uses a hairdryer then puts on the final touches - some powder, followed by some airbrushed "Shrekles" to give Perry's makeup some definition. 
• The outfit is hot! Perry wears so many layers in that famous Shrek costume that he has to wear ice packs underneath and use a cool room in between acts. 
• Christian Marriner, who plays Lord Farquaad in the show, is also dealing with the heat. He told us has has been told to drink Pedialyte after suffering some dehydration.
• With the exception of Shrek and "baby Shrek," most actors in the show do their own makeup. 

The show follows the story of the first "Shrek" film, but has a few surprises. One of the coolest things we saw backstage was the dragon! 

Check out our videos to see more behind the scenes footage.