‘Honk! The Ugly Duckling Musical’ to open at Clear Space Nov. 13

“Honk! The Ugly Duckling Musical” will open Friday, Nov. 13, at Clear Space Theatre, transforming the stage into a world of dancing and singing farm animals that will entertain the whole family.

“None of us are human in the show,” said Gavin Conner, who plays Ugly, the ugly duckling. “It’s different from anything else we have done. The music, though difficult at times to perform, is super uplifting and goofy!”

Since the musical was created in 1993, it has won multiple awards. This heartwarming celebration of being different is sure to delight audiences of all ages with its sparkling wit and memorable score.

Ugly looks different from his duckling brothers and sisters. The other animals on the farm are quick to notice and point it out, despite his mother’s protective flapping.

Feeling rather foul about himself, Ugly finds himself on an adventure of self-discovery, all the while unknowingly outwitting a very hungry cat. Along the way, Ugly meets a flock of unique characters and finds out that being different is not a bad thing.

Actor Keavy Rhodes, who plays Ugly’s mother, said the story delivers one of the most important messages for today’s youth. “Social media and today’s society have put so much pressure on teens, expecting them to be an exact replica of what they believe beauty to be, when in reality, every single person is beautiful just the way they are,” she said.

Conner said he has come across countless people who have been left out or ridiculed for their uniqueness or differences during their times of growth. “I myself went through a time where I didn’t feel comfortable in my skin, and other people’s words have harmed me, but as I grow and find more people like me, I have realized my worth on and off stage,” he said.

“Honk! The Ugly Duckling Musical” is based on the Hans Christian Anderson story, brought to the stage by screenwriter Anthony Drewe with music by George Stiles. Clear Space Artistic Director David Button directs, with music direction by Melanie Bradley and choreography by Shondelle Graulich. “Honk!” is produced in collaboration with sponsorships by Fins Hospitality Group and Karen West. 

“Honk! The Ugly Duckling Musical” performances are at 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 13; 3 and 7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 14; and 3 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 15. Socially distanced tables for two or four guests are available. Buy online at clearspacetheatre.org/tickets/. Masks are required for all patrons.