Pleasant dreams

Fallsburg stages charming production of ‘Once Upon a Mattress’

By RICHARD A. ROSS

FALLSBURG, NY—Fifty years ago ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ starring Carol Burnett as Princess Winifred began its storied Broadway run. The show directed by George Abbott and choreographed by Joe Layton featured Jane White in the role of Queen Aggravain marking the first time an African American played the part of a white character on Broadway. Sarah Jessica Parker played Winnifred in the Broadway revival.

The play which is an adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Princess and the Pea,” features music by Mary Rodgers and lyrics by Marshall Barer. Signature songs include “Many Moons Ago,” “In a Little While,” “Shy,” “Happily Ever After,” and the Nightingale Lullaby,” among others.

This weekend The Fallsburg Jr/Sr High School Drama Club presents “Once Upon a Mattress” on April 17- 18 at 7 pm. The show is directed by Ellen Pavloff.

Andrea Zalkin stars as Winnifred, Zalkin’s enactment of the deft but daffy princess is witty and charming. Christopher Sheridan as Prince Dauntless the Drab. His performance is first rate.

Violeta Loarca as conniving and controlling Queen Aggravain. By play’s end you’ll love to despise her character. She is wonderful. Edwin Ramirez as King Sextimus plays the mute part with the guile of Harpo Marx. Sophie Marsden as Lady Larken, and Jacob Rundle as Sir Harry offer a romantic subtext as they woo and feud. The show also featured are Sierrra Spechler as the Jester, Aaron Tremper as the Minstrel, and Adam Dohrenwend as the Wizard. All three are splendid. Spechler is a show stealer.

The costumes are by Janet Kaplan. The stunning set was designed by Harold Tighe but built by the Fallsburg students. It’s a knockout . Lighting is by Ellen Pavloff. The Musical director is Liz Toleno and the band directed by John Lusk with Liz Toleno on piano, Jim Wegrzyn on bass, Lauren Bernard on reeds/winds, Mike Williams (building principal) on trumpet and Larry Balestra on drums/percussion. Tickets are $8 dollars for adults, $5 dollars for students and senior citizens, and children under five are free. Come join the fun! The show is a sheer delight.

The show is dedicated to the memory of former school board member Mel Mednick. “His help and dedication to the drama club will never be forgotten.”

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