Book and Lyrics: Robyn Grant and Daniel Foxx
Music: Tim Gilvin
Director: Robyn Grant
Twenty years after the success of Wicked (the musical backstory of Oz’s Wicked Witch of the West), it’s now the turn of Disney’s arch-villain, Ursula (of The Little Mermaid fame), to have her moment in the spotlight, telling her story in her way. Yes, this cult-camp icon (arguably everyone’s favourite Disney antagonist) now has her own parody musical: Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea-Witch.
Voiced in the 1989 movie by the late Pat Caroll and said to be inspired by drag queen, Divine, it’s no wonder this pluz-sized, fervent, diva, is coined as a feminist icon of our generation! Putting Ursula centre stage, this production has just finished a run at Edinburgh fringe (housed rather suitably in the very purple Underbelly) and already comes with a bit of a cult following, due to its satirical take on deconstructing Disney stereotypes and championing body positivity and female empowerment throughout.
What a way for this company to open their run at The Lowry! With their regular leading lady struck down (sea) sick, it’s down to understudy Allie Dart to step into her tentacles, with just a day’s rehearsal. Dart has the audience hooked from the second she opens her mouth. Her Ursula revels in camp, villainous glory. Dart really makes this role her own, bringing vampy diva energy mixed with punky, sex appeal. Her gravitas and stage presence pack a powerful punch, making her an unexpectedly brilliant Ursula.
Miracle Chance’s shrill take on Ariel is a real crowd pleaser and on point throughout. Her ‘Part of Your World’ pastiche, a highlight of the whole show. Chance’s on-stage charisma really shines from start to finish – a master of physical comedy and kooky facial expressions. Similarly, Jamie Mawson is a real chameleon, navigating his way through a plethora of characters with gusto. His Prince Eric being a firm audience favourite thanks to his unapologetic over-egging of every one of his tongue-in-cheek gags, always welcomed with roaring laughter. James Witty delivers a stand-out vocal performance, marrying vivacious comedy with strapping vocals as King Triton.
Abby Clark’s set design centres around Ursula’s lair: a bony, octo-pronged carcass that engulfs the space, providing a shell for the players and band, all the while draped in shimmering lametta curtains to provide that glitzy, cabaret glamour.
It could do with some tightening in the second act but overall, a truly entertaining night at the theatre, with its catchy tunes and clever lyrics always mocking the original Walt Disney classic. It’s no wonder this show went down so well at Edinburgh fringe. It exudes fun, frolic and frivolity and it’s great to see a show like this on a proscenium arch, commercial stage to elevate it to new heights and bring a new flavour of musical theatre to the forefront. If you’re a fan of the ole sea witch herself, be sure you don’t miss the boat with this one… it would be unfortunate not to catch it.
Runs until 10 September 2022
