Once Upon a Mattress

This old-fashioned musical has lost none of its charm. Based on the fairy tale The Princess and the Pea by Hans Christian Andersen and later inspired by the book Once Upon a Mattress, it first opened off Broadway in 1959. 

It is refreshing when companies are willing to produce lesser known musicals. Director Lauren Scarfe and Musical Director Katie Packer were made aware of it by a mutual friend and so their love affair and journey with this tale began.

A scheming mother in the form of Queen Aggravain (Lucy Trewin) is convinced there is not a princess alive who is fit to marry her son Prince Dauntless (William Peake). This causes much unrest in the village as no-one can marry until the prince does. 

Trewin plays her role with gusto, her voice booming from the stage. Peake does a fine job as the naïve prince. With a well-rounded vocal range, he never misses a note.

Although this story was written over 50 years ago, female roles were strong. None more so than boisterous, clumsy and vocal princess from the marshes, Princess Winnifred (Emily-Jo Davidson). From the moment she swims "…Through the moat…" she garners attention from all in the village. Davidson steals the show with her energy and down-to-earth portrayal. Her manic rendition of "Shy" is a highlight, both vocally and comically.

I found casting was delightful, with all performers making the most of their roles.

Aled Proeve as the Minstrel has the voice of an angel and was the perfect choice to sing and narrate the action.

The ensemble consists of some new faces to the stage, which is always welcomed.

Set design by Helen Wheadon is inventive, with castle walls doubling for other set pieces when rotated. It made set changes quick, and look effortless. There was plenty of space for musical numbers and pleasing dance routines, choreographed by Vanessa Redmond.

My only criticism is that some musical numbers slow down the pace. However, on a whole, the show is enjoyable enough for this to be forgiven.

With much of the action over-played (deliberately) and the script being full of silly one-liners, I believe this polished show is for all ages.

Kerry Cooper