Lucas Gregg as "Ugly and Lisa Sturz as "Ida"

In association with TheatreUNCA, the Asheville Theatre for Young Audiences will present "HONK! The Ugly Duckling Musical" July 17-20 at UNCA’s Carol Belk Theatre. This 2003 Summer Stage Production is open to the public and is suitable for the entire family.

Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairy tale, this funny musical frolics with flocks of ducks, geese and swans. Billy, Beaky, Downy and Fluff start flapping and squawking over the freshly hatched arrival of their fowl brother, Ugly. He looks different. He's way too big. And he's a lousy quacker. When Ugly sets off for adventure, he is lead off in wild directions, setting the stage for delightful puns, jokes and sight gags.

This award-winning British hit features a local cast of 34 talented youth and adult actors. It is directed by Denise Crowell, ATYA education director.

"HONK! The Ugly Duckling Musical" runs July 17-20. Curtain is at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday with matinees at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $10 general admission, $8 senior citizens and $5 students. Because of the intimate size of UNCA's Carol Belk Theatre and often heavy demand for tickets, advance purchase is strongly advised. Tickets may be charged by phone after July 10 by calling 828/232-2291 between noon-6:30 p.m. weekdays. Tickets are also available at the box office from noon-8 p.m. on the days of the performance and online.

For more information, call UNCA's Drama Department, at 828/251-6610.