Made to Measure is about a bride-to-be looking for the perfect plus-sized wedding dress, and the designer who pledges to make the process affirming and positive.

However, it turns out, she isn't completely free of the fat-shaming and judgment common in society.

The play brings the complex issue of obesity - causes, effects on physical and mental health, and societal attitudes - to a city where up to 79.8 per cent of people are deemed overweight.

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Playwright Alana Valentine based her work on many interviews with designers, brides and health-based scientists - meaning it walks a line between body positivity and the science behind weight and health.

Tracy Mann, who plays couturier Monica, said her character "in many ways represents ... our thoughts and judgments".

"She sees herself as someone very open-minded and accepting but, during the course of the play, her prejudices are confronted and she's forced to look at herself as much as Ashleigh is forced to look at herself."

What messages the audience might garner from the show was "so personal" but one was: "Don't walk around in shame."

"I would hope that they would take away that they're alright; there might be things they can do to change, perhaps, behaviours - but maybe also accepting who they are."

One reviewer called the play "confronting, informative and moving".