The Ugly One

THE UGLY ONE by Marius von Mayenburg

May 8 - 17, 2025

“You’re taking yourself terribly seriously. As if you’re the only one that’s having this problem.”

With razor-sharp wit at a breakneck pace The Ugly One follows Lette after he discovers a simple truth: he is unspeakably ugly. As Lette tries to change himself for his colleagues and loved ones, this laugh out loud play dares us to consider how you can be yourself when your face is no longer your property?

In what can only be described as a surreal mash-up of Frankenstein meets Pygmalion, von Mayenburg’s play was a smash-hit upon its 2007 debut at the Royal Court. Famous Last Words are proud to present the first professional production of The Ugly One in Adelaide for local audiences.

The Ugly One, directed by James Watson (Miss Julie, 4.48 Psychosis, The Maids) is brought to life by a team of emerging South Australian artists. Featuring James Starbuck (This is Fine, Vanya in our Own time), Tom Spiby (Noasis), and returning after their hit collaboration on The Maids; Emelia Williams (Miss Julie) and Virginia Blackwell (Dragging the Chain).

Showing at Slingsby’s iconic Hall of Possibilities The Ugly One is a rollicking and poignant satire of our image-conscious zeitgeist.

Writer – Marius von Mayenburg
Translation – Maja Zade
Director – James Watson
Cast – Virginia Blackwell, Tom Spiby, James Starbuck, & Emelia Williams
Lighting – Steven Durey

The Ugly One is presented by Famous Last Words at Slingsby’s Hall of Possibilities with the generous support of Carclew.

Preview - Thursday 8th May

Opening night - Friday 9th

Post-show Q&A - Sunday 11th

Closing night - Saturday 17th

(approximate run time 70 minutes)