I know this is a complete shot in the dark, but here goes! :)

There is this shrub, exactly as I have described in the subject. In fact, I think I may have seen this shrub at Disneyland used for the character shaped shrubs. It appears that even when you shear it to whatever shape it looks good.

I really need this plant. At first I thought it might be a type of Yew, but I can't find one that matches.

If you live in Newcastle, these shrubs are in the front of Mustard Seed II Bar & Grill.

Thanks for any tips! I would really appreciate it! Sue