UGLY DUCKLING

On a farm, a mother duck hatches her eggs. One duckling looks different—larger and less cute. Mocked and excluded by others, he leaves in sadness. Alone, he faces many challenges and rejections. As seasons pass, he faces and overcomes many challenges. Through this journey, he grows stronger, discovers himself, and reunites with his family. 

The play reminds us that true worth comes from within, not appearance. It highlights the pain of exclusion, the value of diversity, and the importance of belonging.

Adapted from Hans Christian Andersen’s tale by Nadir Sarıbacak and Ayhan Hulagu, the play blends puppetry styles, including Karagöz shadow theater and hand puppets. Four storyteller guide the story, weaving in rich elements of Anatolian theater tradition.

ACTORS: Ayhan Hulagu, Vildan Urfan, Esra Kara, Nadir Sarıbacak

PUPPET DESIGN: Serkan Ozturk, Ayhan Hulagu (shadow figures)

LIGHT DESIGN: Betul Selma Hacıbeyoglu

Running time: 50 min (All Ages) 

*This play is appropriate for audiences aged 4 and older.