By Shantelle L. Argyle
Once Upon a Mattress, with music by Mary Rodgers and lyrics by Marshall Barer, book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller, and Marshall Barer,is a classic production with a few modern Easter eggs thrown in for fun. Produced by the Heritage Community Theatre in Perry, Utah, this community theatre has made the most of the colorful and clever script in a truly charming setting. Having never visited before, I gasped at the old church-turned theatre and its impressive façade. Director Meg Clawson performs triple duty, doing costume design and choreography in addition to directing. Clawson opts for an austere set but very ambitious use of the small stage, particularly for the large cast and surprisingly big choreography. The choreography includes acrobatic lifts and spins, which makes for a thrilling experience as the bright and voluminous gowns flutter under the lights. The costumes provided by CenterPoint Legacy Theatre are colorful and fun, particularly for Queen Aggravain (Amber Kacherian), who is suitably adorned in bright red.
The classic story is supposed to be about “the princess and the pea” but in this version, it’s really about the overbearing Queen Aggravain and her quest to hold on to her “dear sweet beautiful baby boy.” Kacheriansteals the show with a huge presence and the best vocal performance in the play, which is unfortunate as the queen has only one major song in the show. Her diction is spot-on for royalty and her soul-piercing glare entirely believable. In addition, her evil chuckle is absolutely infectious.
Rebecca Genther, as Winnifred, offers an energetic and undeniably likeable performance. “Fred,” originally played by Carol Burnett, is challenging in that the character is supposed to be both oafish and adorable, something Gentherbrings to the role in spades. Genther is a talented singer, managing the very-physical demands of dancing and belting. Unfortunately, her microphone did not seem to be working throughout the show, or at least it was turned down a bit too low to capture her songs fully. Luckily, the small theatre and excellent acoustics managed to compensate in part.
The romance between Lady Larken and Sir Harry, played by Sarah Johnson and Jordan Martineau, is sweet. Their harmony on the reprise of “In a Little While” gave me goosebumps, and their fight scene was both hilarious and tragic. Johnsonis Lucille Ball reborn–wide-eyed, with an impressive range of facial expressions and classic Hollywood appearance.
King Sextimus, the handsy but loveable mute-king, is played by Tad Wilson. His expressive face makes up for his silence, and he is a joy to watch as he gets into mischief. Wilson’sportrayal of the ever-awkward “birds and the bees” conversation with his son Prince Dauntless (played by real-life son Caderik Wilson)is silly and relatable. Dauntless is a tough role, as a coming-of-age prince fights between shyness and his role as the future king. The younger Wilsonmanages it with grace and offers a sincere and sweet performance as we watch him go from a boyish crush to loving and protecting his future princess.
The friendship between the minstrel (Abby Payne-Peterson), the jester (Nicole Atkinson), and King Sextimus is one of the most loved in theatre history. In this version, Payne-Peterson and Atkinsontake on roles traditionally played by men. Their crystal-clear vocals add a depth to the parts that might be missed if played by men. The jester serves as both interpreter and task-master for the king, conveying a precious relationship between them. The minstrel, while new in town, fits right into the trio. Together, they bring out most of the comedic elements of the show.
A truly delightful part of the play is the wizard, played by Troy Hone. Honetakes the wizard’s attention-seeking magic act to a truly hilarious level, adding bits that brought the biggest laughs in the audience. He keeps it going during intermission, when he threatens to search audience members’ purses for snacks if we don’t purchase any concessions. His comedic timing as he mocks Queen Aggravain during one of her many rants is spot-on, and it’s hard to imagine how Kacherian keeps a straight face as Honeis pulling fire balls out of his nose or from thin air while making truly ridiculous faces over her shoulder.
Light designer John Harlow works extremely well in a challenging space. Lead actress Gentheralso handles props, which is impressive given how many there are in the show, despite a simple set.
The Heritage Theatre is a true local gem, bringing the Northern Utah community quality and fun shows. I couldn’t help but donate to their “bathroom renovation” project, as it is so important to support local theatre. The children in the audience were delighted, and as Heritage Theatre seems intent on keeping the joy alive for generations to come, it was a privilege to help support their mission.
Once Upon a Mattress, presented by Heritage Community Theatre, in Perry, Utah is a bundle of surprises. It offers solid performances and if you pay attention, you might catch a Lady Gaga or Prince reference. The show runs approximately 2 hours 30 minutes and offers a short intermission. Children and adults alike will enjoy it, despite some slightly adult– (but subtle) humor.
Heritage Community Theatre presents: Once Upon a Mattress with music by Mary Rodgers and lyrics by Marshall Barer, book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller, and Marshall Barer.
Heritage Theatre, 2505 South Highway 89,Perry, Utah 84302
March 1-23, 2019 7:30 PM, Monday, Thursday-Saturday, Matinee, 2:00 PM Saturday
Tickets: $12
Contact: 435-723-8392
Heritage Theatre Facebook Page
Once Upon a Mattress Facebook Event
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