Once Upon a Mattress- Empress Theatre (Quilt Cast)

Once Upon a Mattress is a musical adaptation of "The Princess and the Pea" and features Princess Winnifred's journey to win Prince Dauntless, battling royal rules and a meddling queen. The music is by Mary Rodgers, lyrics by Marshall Barer, and book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller, and Marshall Barer.  This production was directed by Adam Cannon. 

Direction:

The director for this production was Adam Cannon. Cannon took a modern take to the show, where the characters weren't wearing the classic Renaissance costumes. He was able to make sure that all the actors could be seen on stage and that they all could have their moment. Cannon made sure that duo actor scenes were strong and full of emotion. (Fred/Dauntless, Harry/Larkin, Aggravain/Dauntless)

The co-choreographers were Lorelai Byers and Michelle Moore. The choreography for "Shy" was fun and exciting to watch. "Song of Love" was well rehearsed and brought an energy to the stage. All songs used the stage well and made it so everyone was seen.

The music director was Amanda King. The song "Shy" was a stand out vocally. Everyone sounded clear and had an energy to their voice. "Song of Love" had everyone together and had a fun tone to the songs. "Man to Man Talk" had a liveliness to it. 

Performances: 

Princess Rowena was played by Chelsea Tramell.  From the moment she stepped on stage her character presence was strong. She portrayed a strong, proper princess. Her singing voice was clear and a delight to listen to.

Queen Aggravain was played by Amanda Robison. She portrayed a harsh, strong mother. Every time she was on stage with Dauntless you could feel the overbearing and protective mother that she was portraying.  Her vocals were strong and helped complete her character. The constant swapping of wigs was also a great way to add to her character.

Lady Larkin was played by Abigail Baugh. Baugh presented an adorable lady in waiting, with a believable innocence. She had a dainty presence so her that made her move effortlessly on stage. Her vocals were lovely to listen to.

(Photo credit: Sunshine Studios Photography)

King Sextimus was played by Scott Carr. Carr brought energy to this mute character with his pantomiming. He added many comedic moments to the night through his physicality and his facial expressions. Carr made the song "Man to Man Talk" look tiring/but effortless. 

Prince Dauntless was played by Sam Fraser. He portrayed Dauntless as a forever child, that was not able to grown because of his mother. Fraser made the choice that his character was obsessed with dinosaurs- from their costume to the props they pulled out of his pocket. Any time his character was bored, he pulled out miniature dinosaurs to play with. When Sir Harry goes on his quest, Fraser gives him a dinosaur and then receives it back when he returns. All of this added a delightful comedy to Fraser's character.

(Photo credit: Sunshine Studios Photography)

Princess Winnifred was played by Michaela Shelton. From the moment she stepped on stage she brought an energy to the stage. Her character was big, as you would expect from Winnifred. Shelton's voice filled the stage every time she sang. The addition of her being barefoot for the show added to the un-ladylikeness of her character.

(Photo credit: Sunshine Studios Photography)

Design:

The set was designed by Clarissa Walker. I was told that the set was supposed to vibe a classic castle setting. On the proscenium was an array of different styled flats. The walls were a brownish gray color with bricks on it. The floor was painted a black and white checkered pattern with the attempt of a marbling effect on the floor.

The costumes for the show don't take the classic take of the Renaissance, like the show usually does. I was told that the direction of the costumes were meant to be more of a modern vibe. The costumes were a mash of rich/ Keeping Up With the Kardashians/ going to church. The cast provided their own costumes. There was an array of styles on stage where it was unclear to what direction the costumes were going. Abby Shelley decided which outfits fit the show, based on the director vision.

The prop master for the show was Scott Shill. The props were simple, yet effective. Being someone who has seen multiple shows at the Empress was excited to see props I recognize from previous productions, and one I made last year for a show I was in.

Final Impressions:

Being one where the Empress is just around the corner from my house, I love to go see shows there. This show is one that is safe for family members of ALL ages to go see. If you are interested in seeing a very different take on this classic tale, try going to see this production. Maybe one of these days I'll meet you at the Empress!

Tickets

(Photo credit: Sunshine Studios Photography)