By Liz Eichler, ATCA
The Story Collective is an up-and-coming theatre program with its sights set on becoming a northern Cincinnati regional theater. This summer, they’ve taken on Once Upon a Mattress, running through July 27 at Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy’s Lindner Auditorium, located just off Snider Road (across from the Silver Spring House restaurant).
A Welcome Blast from the Past
Hearing the music of Once Upon a Mattress again—after what feels like 30 years—was a real treat. (Somehow, the lyrics were still lodged deep in my brain.) Originally debuting on Broadway in 1959, the show made a star of Carol Burnett and later toured with legendary performers Dody Goodman and Imogene Coca. (Don’t know them? They’re icons. Click on the links. ) This musical was a staple of high school and community theatre through the ’70s and ’80s. The music is by Mary Rogers (seriously click on this link–did you know she also wrote Freaky Friday?), lyrics by Marshall Barer and book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller, and Marshall Barer.
The Story
Based on the fairytale The Princess and the Pea, this whimsical musical follows the royal search for a suitable bride for Prince Dauntless. When a feisty princess from the northern swamps—Winifred, or “Fred”—appears, she captures the prince’s heart and charms the court. The Queen, however, isn’t easily swayed. None of the previous princesses have passed her “tests,” and Fred’s challenge is the toughest yet: to feel a single pea beneath 20 mattresses. Will she succeed? You’ll have to see the show to find out.
Framing the central story is a sweet device: a wandering minstrel telling the tale to four children, who appear throughout the show. Trey Jackson, Hailey Mollman, Abe Sanders, Brynn Sorosiak, Roman Zuniga and Nikayla Sisney rotate through the performances. On opening night the four I saw took on these roles with impressive energy and focus.
Direction and Musical Highlights
Under the direction of Susan Jung (who also leads The Story Collective), and vocal direction of Jennifer Flory, this production provides a wonderful opportunity for early career performers to grow. There’s solid vocal talent here, and the ensemble shines brightest in group numbers like “Spanish Panic” and “Happily Ever After.” Long-time fans of the show will especially enjoy hearing gems like “In a Little While,” “Shy” and “Swamps of Home.”
Standout Performances
- Jocelyn Sluka brings a bold, villainous and professional flair to Queen Aggravain.
- David Little gives a solid performance as King Septimus (though the role itself feels dated).
- Matt Lovell clearly enjoys his turn as the Wizard.
- Maggie Komp, as Princess Winnifred, has the belt and presence to carry the role with adorkable energy.
- Grant Zentmeyer plays the delightfully awkward Prince Dauntless with charm.
- Monica Tenhover shines as the Jester, especially in the soft-shoe number “Very Soft Shoes.”
- Grace Goodwin plays Lady Larkin and demonstrates a well trained voice.
- Sam Hoyer as Sir Harry has a lovely vocal tone and control.
- Terry Webb, as the Minstrel, is engaging—I hope to see more of him on other stages around town.
Supporting cast members include Macie Becker, Marianne Bradshaw, Emmarie Brewer (who simply grabs your eye as she dances), Bethany Brown, Grace Caccavari, Brianna Kennedy, Tony Mann, Justin Reilman, and Deonte Streeter.
This is a mostly young cast with strong technical performance skills—especially singing and dancing. As a group they have excellent articulation and energy. As they continue to develop as actors, focusing on deeper character work will elevate their future productions even further. Comedy is hard. Creating memorable characters means pushing past your comfort zone. See what that did for Carol Burnett?
Technical Elements
CHCA’s Lindner Auditorium is an impressive space, and this production makes good use of its advanced sound and lighting systems. The set (designed by Jim Jung) cleverly transforms a simple boxcar into a playful kingdom. Rich jewel-toned costumes and bright set pieces create a visually engaging stage. Sound levels might benefit from slight adjustment—many performers have powerful voices, and some belt moments and ensemble singing verge on overpowering.
Final Thoughts
Once Upon a Mattress is a light, nostalgic musical, made even more enjoyable by the enthusiasm and heart of this young cast. The Story Collective is a group worth watching as they grow into their regional theatre ambitions. If you’re in northern Cincinnati and in the mood for something fun and familiar, this show is a pleasant summer outing.
Tickets
Tickets to Once Upon a Mattress are available online at The Story Collective website or at the door. Also click on the link to learn more about this growing theatre group.
Remaining performances are:
- July 26 at 2 pm and 8 pm
- July 27 at 3 pm
CHCA Lindner Theatre Address: 11525 Snider Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249
Run Time: about 2 hours 30 minutes (including a 15 minute intermission–concessions available).
