Review: Apparently Ugly (Underbelly Boulevard)

I was interested in Apparently Ugly as soon as I saw an Instagram post about it, so I was delighted when I was invited to review it. Billed as a family show, and produced by Era Productions, I was keen to see what we had in store.

The first thing I noticed as we walked into the theatre space was a clear sign with content warnings and clarity on photos being allowed at curtain call. As someone who loves snapping curtain calls when allowed, this was very much appreciated, even if the words ‘audience participation’ instilled a sense of dread in this introvert’s mind (note in fact this participation was mild, and very entertaining).

On stage was a huge mirror, and this was the one piece of set throughout the show. However, as the show progressed this was turned around, effectively changing the scene as it went. This was an efficient use of the available space.

As the show began, Cinderella’s step-sisters Agnes (Amber Hegarty) and Olga (Chloe Way) burst into view, on their return from Cinderella’s wedding. Jealous of Cinderella, unable to understand why she’s been so lucky in love while they haven’t, their dramatic complaints were hilarious and within moments of the show beginning I found myself smiling, which continued for the entire performance. Amber Hegarty and Chloe Way have such fantastic chemistry together, their movements, where they needed to be, were also completely in sync. Believable as sisters, with an almost cartoon-like delivery at times, these performances were perfect for the subject matter.

Nicky Douglas as Mother in Apparently Ugly (curtain call photo)

When Agnes and Olga’s Mother appeared, it became obvious why they are negative characters at the start of the show. Not a lot of positive parenting going on here, far from it in fact.  What was going on, was a stunning performance by Nicky Douglas as their villainous Mother.  The look, the costumes, the vocals and the absolute drama of it all, what a brilliant character.

The fourth and final character was Godfather, played by Elliott Wooster. Alongside their vocals and performance (which I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing previously) their comic timing came to the forefront in this show and made so many scenes amusing. Alongside Godfather, other characters appeared, some with rapid costume adaptions.

The costumes by Sarah Douglas need a mention of their own. The colours in Olga and Agne’s costumes give a subtle reference to one very popular show, the Godfather’s blue suit is gorgeous and as for Mother… wow! These costumes are breathtaking as you can see in the photo above.

There are a lot of comedy moments, some of which will make the adults laugh while flying over younger children’s heads. The vocals and performances across the board are wonderful. The chemistry between all 4 cast members is superb. The nods to other musicals – Disney and otherwise – are embedded in the costumes and dialogue, and the lighting also enhances the show. The jokes themselves are paced perfectly, none of them being dragged out, and there are good messages in the story, without it feeling at all preachy or serious.

I personally feel the suggested age of 8+ on the marketing information was about right. We had some younger children (likely Disney fans) at the front of the stalls and there were some slightly confused looks on some of their faces at times.

There were a few minor glitches with sound; microphone issues and temporary imbalance, but these were rectified quickly. I am certain that these will be ironed out ahead of the next run.

It’s probably already obvious that I loved Apparently Ugly. I’d go as far as saying it has been one of my favourite shows of 2026 so far. We left feeling completely uplifted and were talking about it for the rest of the afternoon.

Elliott Wooster, Chloe Way and Amber Hegarty in Apparently Ugly (curtain call photo)

It wasn’t until I got home and looked at the show website in more detail that I realised Nicky Douglas not only played Mother but also wrote and directed the show, and it was his UK debut as composer and lyricist.  Not only that, but this was the debut performance of the show a whole, which I found quite hard to believe as it was so polished.

Apparently Ugly was an intriguing idea for a show, but I did not anticipate quite how perfect it would be.  I will be going to see this show again at my earliest opportunity.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Apparently Ugly is next heading to Edinburgh Fringe and will be a highlight for anyone who loves a musical.   

If you would like to see more of my curtain call photographs from this and other shows, please visit my Instagram.

I was gifted a ticket for this show in exchange for an honest review.