I cannot get the Toad Shamen to open the trapdoor so I can complete the Toadem quest. I have asked every possible question to him, along with everyone in the room. I have smashed the barrel, etc. Is this a huge bug? Has anyone had this happen? Or am I missing something.

There is a certain word you must say to him. I can't remember what it was, but try using Ukabu first. Use words that branch off of that..

Ukabu is correct. Once he knows you are Ukabu,he will give you the quest, and open the door.

Righto geeza, 1st make sure you aint hit any toads, the shaman will know if you have or not.
I also got stuck here for ages. Also make sure that you have the patch for the game, which i believe you can download off this site.
Speak to the shaman and ask every question on your talk scroll. and he should open the trap door for you.

Welcome to the board, Ambrose!

Hope you have gotten the trapdoor open finally! Check out the BEST TIPS thread on problems similar to this. There is a lot of useful information in that thread!

Wyv