KAI Summer Theatre presents 'Once Upon a Mattress'
The Kaneland Arts Initiative will conclude its 2013-14 season with the fifth annual summer theater production.
This year's production will be "Once Upon a Mattress," directed by Diane McFarlin. Auditions were held in May and a cast was chosen for this lighthearted retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's "The Princess and the Pea."
If you thought you knew the story of "The Princess and The Pea," you may be in for a walloping surprise! Did you know, for instance that Princess Winnifred actually swam the moat to reach Prince Dauntless the Drab? Or that Lady Larken's love for Sir Harry provided a rather compelling reason that she reach the bridal alter post haste? Or that, in fact, it wasn't the pea at all that caused the princess a sleepless night? Carried on a wave of wonderful songs, by turns hilarious and raucous, romantic and melodic, this rollicking spin on the familiar classic of royal courtship and comeuppance provides for some sidesplitting shenanigans. Chances are you'll never look at fairy tales quite the same way again.
Opening in May of 1958, "Once Upon a Mattress" delighted audiences with songs such as "Shy," "Song of Love," and "Happily Ever After." The show is notable for the Broadway debut to a young Carol Burnett, playing principal character Princess Winnifred, resulting in the introduction of America to one of its brightest stars.
"Once Upon a Mattress" will be presented July 11-13 and 18-20 in the auditorium of Kaneland High School, 47W326 Keslinger Road in Maple Park. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7 p.m. and Sunday performances begins at 2 p.m.
The show is appropriate for all ages and runs 2 hours long including a 15-minute intermission. Tickets are currently on sale on the Kaneland District webstore (www.kaneland.org).
Tickets are $10, $8 for senior citizens and students, and $25 for the popular Family Ticket. The Family Ticket admits all family members currently living in one household for $25. As always, preschoolers are free. Seating is reserved.
Groups interested in seeing the show should call (630) 365-5100, ext. 180, for group rate pricing. For information, visit www.kanelandartsinitiative.org.