University Theatre to conclude 60th anniversary season with “Once Upon a Mattress”
March 21, 2024
YSU’s University Theatre will conclude its 60th anniversary season with the production of “Once Upon a Mattress,” a whimsical, enchanting musical that follows a journey through the kingdom of happily ever after.
Written as a humorous adaptation of “The Princess and the Pea,” the musical is set in a 15th century fairy tale kingdom ruled by the devious Queen Aggravain. The Queen, in search of a princess to marry her son, has decreed that no one in the kingdom may marry until he does. However, she has one trick up her sleeve: the princess must pass the Queen’s impossible “tests” to prove she’s worthy of the prince.
“While in their studies, it is essential for University Theatre students to develop the skills necessary to perform in the Golden Age style,” director Adam Howard said. “Recent history has shown us the necessity of the arts in times of crisis as a healing and joining force. If we fail to train the next generation of artists, then we risk the absence of art in our lives when we need it most.”
Cast members include Elise Vargo, Westerville, Ohio; Sam Nabring, Aurora, Ohio; Mallory Ehrhart, Antwerp, Ohio; Cyrus Dzikowski, Uniontown, Ohio; Chloe Downey, New Waterford, Ohio; Mekhi Dawson, Youngstown, Ohio; Sam Law, Hudson, Ohio; Emalee Chappa, Hawkins, Texas; Ben Podnar, Wampum, Pennsylvania; Natalie Horvath, Hubbard, Ohio; Ilse Zijlstra, Antwerp, Ohio; Grace Beil, Lisbon, Ohio; Landon Eli, Boardman, Ohio; Nathan Franklin, Salem, Ohio; and Ryan Bedi, Marietta, Pennsylvania.
In addition to Howard, technical staff includes costume and makeup designer Katherine Garlick; stage manager KJ Hudson; and assistant stage manager Brooke May.
Performances will be held April 5 – 7 and 12 – 14 in the YSU Ford Theater in Bliss Hall. Friday and Saturday performances will begin at 7:30 PM, with the Sunday matinee performances beginning at 2:00 PM.
Visit the YSU University Theatre website for ticket information. Adult tickets are $16, and special rate tickets are $12 for non-YSU students, YSU alumni, faculty, and staff, senior citizens, Penguin Club members, and groups of eight (8) or more. YSU students are free with a valid ID. To purchase show tickets, call 330-941-3105 or visit www.ysu.tix.com.