The Ugly Duckling

There are some valuable lessons to be learned in this simple yet effective show by Kipper Tie Theatre. Namely that being brave, imaginative and clever is a whole lot more important than being beautiful.

Performers Bernie Byrnes and Sally Lofthouse are both dab hands at characterisation, with Lofthouse portraying the lonely but ever-hopeful duckling, and Byrnes switching from Scottish duck, to cockney dog, northern English hen and finally a scouse swan. The use of British Sign Language in places, to embellish the dialogue, is also a nice touch – both for those who already use it, and to teach a smattering to those who don’t

The song and dance routines can be a little underwhelming at times, and some of the lyrics will fly over the heads of younger viewers. But the comic timing of both actors, and the show’s central message of friendship and kindness, make this a show well worth checking out.

C, 0845 260 1234, until 27 Aug (not 14 & 21), 10am, £7.50--£9.50 (£3.50--£7.50).