What do you get when you mix the swampy charm of Shrek, one of the most iconic soundtracks of the 2000s, and the electric energy of a rave? You get Shrek Rave, a worldwide party phenomenon that’s finally landing in Johannesburg this October.
On Friday, October 10, Sognage will transform into a neon swamp where Shrek, Donkey, Fiona, and a horde of ravers collide. The event is being brought to the city by Likeit-Loveit, and for coordinator Louis Williamson, Joburg was the obvious choice.
“We’ve heard about the thriving rave culture and energy in South Africa, so it was a no-brainer to bring it here,” Williamson says. “The first Shrek Rave we did in London took off instantly and became a worldwide phenomenon. It’s a fantastic movie with a fantastic soundtrack, and when we paired it with rave culture, it just worked. Now we’re excited to share it with Johannesburg.”
And they’re not holding back. Expect larger-than-life Shrek visuals, live performances, themed décor, and plenty of swampy surprises. Williamson promises a fully immersive experience: “We’ve really nailed the concept to ensure that the only thing on people’s minds is, ‘When is the next one?’”
Of course, no rave is complete without music, and Shrek Rave is going all out. Attendees can look forward to hit tracks from all the Shrek movies and a stacked lineup of House, Drum & Bass, Techno, Trance, and more. In other words, “All Star” and “I’m a Believer” won’t be the only anthems you’ll be screaming along to.
The event is strictly 18+, but the vibe is all about nostalgia and playfulness. Whether you’re a millennial who grew up watching the movies, someone who took their kids to see Shrek in cinemas, or just a raver looking for something a little left-field, this party is for you.
And yes, costumes are highly encouraged. “I expect to see hundreds of Shreks, Donkeys and Fionas in every corner of the venue,” Williamson says. “The production value we bring is top-tier – this will be nothing like South African attendees have seen before.”
The Johannesburg rave is part of a two-city debut in South Africa, with Cape Town also on the swampy tour. But if demand is anything like it’s been in the UK, US, and beyond, Joburg could be seeing a lot more of Shrek Rave in the future.
So, get your ears (ogre or otherwise) ready: Shrek Rave takes over Sognage on October 10. Tickets are available now at likeit-loveit.com.
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