Reasons to Be Pretty Delves Deep Into Superficiality

It is commonly said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, or that beauty is only skin deep. But how much truth do these common clichés really hold in our undeniably superficial society? These questions are discussed thoroughly in Neil LaBute’s new play Reasons to be Pretty, playing at the Lucille Lortel Theatre.

The play opens with an impassioned argument between the obviously dysfunctional couple Steph (Alison Pill) and Greg (Thomas Sadoski). Steph’s closest friend Carly (Piper Perabo) has recently informed her that Greg has publicly stated that Steph has a “regular” face—as opposed to a pretty one. This one comment fuels the entire plot of LaBute’s emotionally saturated play.

With the help of David Gello’s simple scenic design and Terry Kinney’s subtle direction, the raw pain and betrayal of each character easily rings through the rafters of the Lortel’s intimate space. This play is likely to hit home with anyone who has ever been hurt or humiliated by a member of the opposite sex—which includes most of us. LaBute asks if trust can truly exist between people who supposedly care for one another, or if betrayal and disappointment are inevitable endings to any intimate relationship.

In addition to the degree of philosophical reflection that the show inspires, the play boasts powerful performances by some critically acclaimed young actors. Pill, most recognizable for her role as Steve Carell’s daughter in the movie Dan in Real Life, cries and shrieks as the under-appreciated Steph. Her performance is unreserved and sincerely captures the essence of a deeply hurt girlfriend. For the fans of cheesy chick flicks, Perabo—known for the good-girl turned sleazy bar dancer in the movie Coyote Ugly—gives a slightly erratic performance of the all-beauty-no-substance Carly. The other two actors in the show, Sadoski and Pablo Schreiber (Kent), provide eerily realistic depictions of male insensitivity.

The play rides the line of cliché, but doesn’t cross it, managing to present a fresh take on modern relationships. Reasons to be Pretty is anything but an uplifting story about the happiness of romantic intimacy—thankfully, though, it’s definitely an opportunity to be reassured that everyone suffers in the name of love.

Reasons to Be Pretty is playing at the Lucille Lortel Theater through July 5th, and is directed by Terry Kinney. The Lucille Lortel is located at 121 Christopher Street, between Hudson and Bleecker Streets. Student tickets are $15 two hours before curtain and are subject to availability. For more information visit www.mcctheater.org.