Introduction：

THE UGLY ONE is a German black comedy written by the renowned German playwright Marius von Mayenburg. It critiques society's standards of beauty and the costs people pay to meet these standards.

The story follows Lette, who, after being called ugly, questions his appearance and undergoes extreme plastic surgery. This act transforms his looks, relationships, and identity. The play uses dark humor on stage to explore themes like identity, social pressure, and the superficial nature of beauty, highlighting the emotional turmoil caused by conforming to social expectations.

Thematic Intentions of the Play

1. Universal Theme of Identity:
The play explores fundamental human concerns about self-image and society’s obsession with beauty, themes that resonate globally. In contemporary China, discussions around beauty standards and self-acceptance are increasingly significant, making this play a catalyst for meaningful dialogue among audiences.
2. Compelling Satire and Humor:
Using absurdity and humor, the play remains accessible and entertaining, avoiding a didactic tone when addressing serious issues. This interactive approach appeals to diverse audiences, especially young people who enjoy comedy and social critique.
3. Cultural Reflection and Dialogue:
Given the tension between traditional and modern values in China, the play’s examination of social norms around appearance can spark important conversations about personal freedom and social expectations. Theatre serves as an effective platform to reflect on these contemporary issues.

Highlights of the Play

- A black comedy with 4 actors playing multiple roles.
- Written by German playwright Marius von Mayenburg, directed by Ukrainian director Valentyna Sotnichenko.
- Created by international artistic talents driven by love for art, exploring appearance anxiety and social pressure across cultural backgrounds, bringing this German black comedy to life.

An empty stage,
A cold light,
Bare floors,
Simple fabrics.
Silence before the storm.
This is more than a play—
It’s an X-ray of our thoughts.

Cast and Crew
Produced by Shanghai UniNewKey
Culture Media Co., Ltd.
Playwright | Marius Von Mayenburg (Germany)
Director | Valentyna Sotnichenko (Ukraine)
Producer | He Jinhan
Co-Producer | Yang Gengyu
Stage Manager | He Yeyun
Music Director | Oleksandr Shimansky (Ukraine-Netherlands)
Choreographer | Anna Matveeva (Russia)
Language Coach | Maria Eltsina (Canada)
Multimedia Design | Valentyna Sotnichenko (Ukraine)
Lighting Design | Hu Hailin
Visual Director | Jin Muye
Make-up Design | Shi Nannan Cai Huiyun
PR Coordinator | He Jinhan, Yang Gengyu
Poster Design | Zheng Wei, Huang Yunjia
Graphic Design | Zheng Wei
Prop Coordinator | Lang Yixun
Photography & Videography | Rocky Wang
Promotional Video Editor | Zhang Yiyuan, Huang Yunjia
Ticketing Coordinator | Zhang Yiyuan
Actors | Hu Chuhao, Yang Yuhui, Sun Cheng, Steven Sun

Special Thanks:
Brand Sponsor: Jolly Jio
Venue Support: Shanghai Great World,
Sheraton Shanghai Pudong Riverside, READ&SOCIAL@THEBUND,
BFC FITNESS, Hepai Pilate, Duhe Books.
Platform Support: JuZai