“Janczewski’s choreography has a seamless quality rooted in intelligence, thoughtfulness and grace. . . . The dancers perform his works with elegance and strength.” —Star Tribune

America’s obsession with outward physical perfection is scrutinized in this evening-length work by one of Minnesota’s leading choreographers. With his eight-member company and live music by West Coast electronic music pioneer Morton Subotnick, Mathew Janczewski explores notions of beauty and ugliness through movement. Following the success of its 10th-anniversary season, ARENA performs one of its most ambitious works to date. See an open rehearsal on Thursday, October 11 at 7 pm.

Stay after the Friday show for a Q&A and hear Mathew Janczewski, Morton Subotnick, ARENA dancers and collaborators discuss the two-year evolution of Ugly.


Commissioned by the Walker Art Center with support provided by the William and Nadine McGuire Commissioning Fund, the Jerome Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Walker Art Center’s Dance Season is sponsored by Gray Plant Mooty.

“Janczewski’s choreography has a seamless quality rooted in intelligence, thoughtfulness and grace. . . . The dancers perform his works with elegance and strength.” —Star Tribune

America’s obsession with outward physical perfection is scrutinized in this evening-length work by one of Minnesota’s leading choreographers. With his eight-member company and live music by West Coast electronic music pioneer Morton Subotnick, Mathew Janczewski explores notions of beauty and ugliness through movement. Following the success of its 10th-anniversary season, ARENA performs one of its most ambitious works to date. See an open rehearsal on Thursday, October 11 at 7 pm.

Stay after the Friday show for a Q&A and hear Mathew Janczewski, Morton Subotnick, ARENA dancers and collaborators discuss the two-year evolution of Ugly.


Commissioned by the Walker Art Center with support provided by the William and Nadine McGuire Commissioning Fund, the Jerome Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Walker Art Center’s Dance Season is sponsored by Gray Plant Mooty.