Ugly Sisters – New Diorama Theatre, London

Writers: Laurie Ward and Charli Cowgill

Director: Joanna Pidcock

Ugly Sisters looks at the real-life event of Germaine Greer meeting a transwoman on the day her book The Female Eunuch is released in America. The woman takes Greer’s hand and proclaims, “Thank you – thank you so much for all you’ve done for us girls.”. Years later, Greer recounts this event in a venomous article. However, this story is recounted by two talented trans performers. This brilliant conceit, which could have been just that, is elevated to an explosive and nuanced retelling of history, thanks to the talented team of theatre makers, including the writer/performers, Laurie Ward and Charli Cowgill and director, Joanna Pidcock. Following a highly successful run at Edinburgh Fringe the show has made its way back to London.

The show takes place across time and place and is explored through movement, music and a thrilling mix of both shocking and poetic prose. This use of creative storytelling weaves seamlessly from scene to scene. There are touching moments that see audience members warmly invited to become involved in the story and a delightful cameo from the stage manager. There is a real boldness in the way Ugly Sisters has been pieced together. Bouncing between farce, absurdity and naturalism the audience is kept guessing and always playing an exciting game of catch-up.

Ugly Sisters could have (and would’ve had the direct quotes from Greer) to paint a simplistic villain out of Greer, but, instead, the show provides an empathetic and human portrayal. This ultimately makes the story and the pro-trans perspective all that stronger.

The design elements are simple and highly effective, and clearly created from a strong dramaturgical vision. One scene of particular poignancy sees a near-naked Cowgill sitting, delivering a beautiful monologue as the coloured lighting bounces off her skin. Just one of many visually striking moments in the show.

Ugly Sisters’ biggest triumph is how it manages to paint a clear and powerful point of view while allowing the audience to find its own way there. It is moving and political but never directly tells us what to feel or think, simply telling a story.

This show feels like a chance for those who’ve been historically voiceless to tell their side of history. Ward and Cowgill have done so with artistry and bravery.

Runs until 20 September 2024