Hans Christian Anderson's story "The Ugly Duckling" has given hope to the homely for centuries. We all go through awkward phases and feel like we don't fit in. But after we do some growing we're bound to come into our own and find a group that likes us - really likes us - and it'll all work out in the end.

Local troupe TYKEs - Theatre Young Kids Enjoy - will stage a musical adaptation of "The Ugly Duckling" with "Honk!", starting Saturday, February 2, and running through Sunday, February 10.

The show follows the same basic story: Ugly is separated from his family and must find his way home. During his adventures he meets bullfrogs, chickens, geese, and other animals. The production stars adult actors, but 40 area kids take the stage as froglets and ducklings.

Performances of "Honk!" take place at School of the Arts, 45 Prince Street. Show times are Saturday, February 2, 2 p.m. (interpreted for the hearing impaired); Sunday, February 3, at 2 p.m.; Thursday, February 7, 10 a.m. (school performance); and Saturday and Sunday, February 9-10, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $14. For more information call 723-6080 or visit tykestheatre.org.