'Reasons to be Pretty' explores American obsession with appearance

By T.C. Sprencel
University News Service
September 22, 2010

The Texas State University-San Marcos Department of Theatre and Dance will present Neil LaBute’s comic drama “Reasons to be Pretty” Sept. 29-Oct. 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 3 at 2 p.m. at the PSH Foundation Studio Theatre on campus.

Directed by theatre graduate student Laura T. Garza, “Reasons to be Pretty” is the story of four people whose relationships with each other force them to confront the ideal of beauty. The play is the final installment of a trilogy that focuses on American obsession with appearance.

“There’s a lot about infidelity, betrayed trust and relationships between men and women,” said Jeremy Torres, publicity coordinator and lecturer in the Department of Theatre and Dance, about the play. “It’s really intense drama with comedic moments.”

Intended for mature audiences, “Reasons to be Pretty” follows “The Shape of Things” and “Fat Pig” in LaBute’s acclaimed series about modern day issues of physical appearance.

Tickets will go on sale Sept. 27 at 10 a.m. and will be $8 general admission and $5 for students. To reserve tickets, please call the Texas State box office at (512) 245-2204. For additional information, please contact the Texas State Department of Theatre and Dance at (512) 245-2147.