Packed with comedic chaos, fabulous fashions, and sensational songs, Apparently Ugly is a gleefully deranged fairytale for kids, adults, and anyone who has ever felt not-quite-perfect
Review by Richard Lambert
What a joy of a show. A proper Saturday afternoon pick-me-up at Underbelly Boulevard Soho, which is quickly turning into one of the most exciting, buzzing spaces for live performance in London right now. It genuinely feels like a little slice of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe has landed in Soho.
Apparently Ugly is bursting with ideas, packed with comedy, and—most importantly—full of heart. The story flips the familiar fairy tale on its head: the Ugly Sisters are left behind when Cinderella heads off to palace life, only to be told by their mother that they’re “ugly” and without prospects. What follows is a wonderfully chaotic, funny, and surprisingly touching journey of self-worth and reinvention.
Enter the fairy Godfather (a brilliant twist), who sets them off on a quest that feels deliciously reminiscent of Into the Woods—a playful, knowing nod that theatre fans will love.
The show is a real all-rounder: original songs that stick in your head, strong vocals, sharp comic timing, and energetic choreography. It looks and feels like a high-quality production, which makes it all the more impressive that this was staged at the Boulevard for just one performance.
It’s cheeky without being crude, packed with double entendres that fly over younger heads but land perfectly for the adults—making it genuinely enjoyable for all ages, from kids to grandparents.
With a transfer to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe this summer, this feels like a hidden gem that won’t stay hidden for long. Catch it while you can.
Photo credit: Luci Stansfield
Cast
Amber Hegarty, Chloe Way, Elliott Wooster, Nicky Douglas
Creatives
Writer/Composer/Director Nicky Douglas
Assistant Director Becky Hoyle
Producer Rachel Duncan
Producing Company ERA Theatrical Productions
Production Manager Rene Alfaro
Costumes Sarah Douglas
Set Designer Josh Iverson
https://apparentlyugly.com/
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/apparently-ugly-a-stepsister-story