The Ugly Duckling

We are all reminded of some important lessons in Kipper Tie’s simple adaptation of this classic Hans Christian Anderson tale; beauty is only skin deep and not as important as being clever, imaginative and brave.

Shown in what feels like a miniature theatre built especially for children, this is a very straightforward show with the two performers Sally Lofthouse and Berbie Byrnes proving to be experienced character actors who have a great partnership on stage. Brynes in particular provides us with the most laughs as she plays each animal with a different regional accent: a scouse swan, cockney dog and a Scottish mama duck.

The dance routines might not dazzle—to be fair, it can’t be easy in large webbed feet—but the songs are simple and enjoyable. Repeating the same short choruses throughout the performance ensures the children get to know them and can easily join in. The occasional use of British Sign Language at key points is also subtle but a nice added extra. Like the repeated choruses, you can see the older children copying and starting to sign themselves.

The Ugly Duckling is an easy, very enjoyable and accessible show that has some very clear and important messages to share with the whole family. In the words of Mama Duck, “It’s good to be good looking but it’s nicer to be nice.”