UGLY is the youngest duckling but looks very different to his brothers and sisters, who pick on him as a result. Lured away from his loving mother by a scheming cat, he soon becomes lost. This delightful musical version of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling follows Ugly’s adventures as he searches for his way home.

There were great characterisations throughout with the choreography performed with lovely synchronicity, energy and gestures full of intent and purpose, perfectly suiting each creature’s persona. The challenging music was sung well with great musicality; many notable performances included Tanvi Dabke (Cat), Abby King (Bullfrog), Katie-Ann Miles (Blizzard vocalist), Emily McKie (Ida), Daisy Baker (Ugly 1) and Alex Mellors (Ugly 2).

This was an enchanting fairytale full of warmth and humour, enhanced by colourful costumes suited to each creature’s characteristics, bold popup book scenery and atmospheric lighting. The future of musical theatre is in safe hands!