"Reasons to be Pretty" set for Performance Studio Series

Grand Valley’s Performance Studio Series will spotlight the human tendency to be consumed by physical appearance during the group’s performance of “Reasons to be Pretty.”

The series allows upper-level theater students to put into practical use the skills they learn in the class through directing, lighting, set design and costume design.

Below is a full schedule of performances for “Reasons to be Pretty”:

February 13 at 7:30 p.m.
February 14 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
February 15 at 2 p.m.
Louis Armstrong Theatre, Performing Arts Center, Allendale Campus

The events in “Reasons to be Pretty” begin from a subtle remark of being “regular” and in a downward spiral of events, both comedic and serious, the featured couples’ relationships find themselves at various breaking points.

Cody Robison, student director for “Reasons to be Pretty,” said the trials and tribulations of love are only a few themes presented during the show.

“I also feel bullying and emotional abuse are touched on in the script,” Robison said. “The playwright, Neil LaBute, during his childhood suffered from abuse and he sources that in most, if not all, of his work. The characters all in some form suffer some sort of abuse and I don’t believe that it is a stretch to say that each character is allegorical in nature in the abuse they represent.”

Robison said attending these performances will provide an opportunity for audience members to absorb an important cultural message that he feels college students especially can relate to.

“Physical appearance has become an unavoidable ideal,” Robison said. “The media inflates the issue severely and we as individuals act on it. Coming to see this play will provide an outside perspective on the topic and ideally grant some insight on how individuals are affected by the silly ploys we issue to each other.”

Tickets for “Reasons to be Pretty” are $6 and can be purchased at the Louis Armstrong Theatre Box Office or by calling (616) 331-2300.