Edinburgh Fringe 2026 - Spotlight On: Apparently Ugly: A Stepsister Story

This 'Edinburgh Fringe - Spotlight On' series takes a look at the shows I will be reviewing at this year's festival and a 5-question Q&A with the creative teams. 

📸 Provided by Press Team

Synopsis: Cinderella's gone – the lucky brat's living it up while her stunning stepsisters are left wondering why they don't get their happily ever after. 

Witness their magical, musical misadventure as they discover what it truly means to be "ugly". 

Packed with lush, original music, dazzling costumes, outlandish characters and comedic madness, Apparently Ugly is a gleefully deranged fairy tale for kids, adults and anyone who's ever felt not-quite-perfect. 

Written by Nicky Douglas. Produced by ERA Theatrical Productions.

Q&A With Nicky Douglas - Writer:

Q: What inspired you to create this show?

A: Isn’t it kind of messed up that we call them the ‘ugly’ stepsisters?” was the first thought of the show. What does it mean to be ugly, or moreover, what does it mean when the whole world calls you ugly? We just had to unpack it. We wanted to give them a second chance. And as we did, we discovered a whole world of complexity, angst, tenderness, and humour.

Q: What can audiences expect when they come to see the show at Edinburgh Fringe?

A: Wacky characters, luscious music, tight lyrics, dazzling costumes, and a pumpkin carriage’s worth of very silly jokes. It’s a really fun show that moves at a lightning pace, keeping all ages entertained throughout.

Q: What is something audiences might be surprised to learn about the show?

A: The show is actually over ten years old, having first been performed in New Zealand in 2015. It had a very similar story and most of the same characters, but with a cast of 16. There’s only one song from that version that’s survived all these years - maybe if you come along you’d be able to work out which one.

Q: What has been the most exciting part of bringing this production to Edinburgh Fringe?

A: We’re so excited to see this finally get the run and the production value it deserves. We put a lot of effort into building this show for a one-off performance in London this year, and now we get to show that work to so many more people. We’re excited for their reactions; for their laughter and joy that we all get to share.

Q: Why should audiences add your show to their Fringe schedule this year?

A: Simply put, it’s a damn good show. It’s slick, it’s well-written, it’s a no-risk, guaranteed good time for all. You will love Apparently Ugly, and at 11:40 am, it will start your fringe day off on a high.

Apparently Ugly: A Stepsister Story runs at Ermintrude at Underbelly, Bristo Square from 5th to 31st August at 11:40am.