MOMS Drama Club Brings Fairy Tale Magic to Life!

Mount Olive Middle School's Production of "Once Upon a Mattress" Enchants Audiences

May 5th, 2024

Mount Olive Middle School's auditorium was transformed into a realm of magic, music, and mirth as the talented students took center stage in their production of "Once Upon a Mattress" on May 2nd, 3rd, and 4th.  Under the guidance of director Mr. Bosch, the school's drama club brought this beloved musical fairy tale to life with gusto and flair.

"Once Upon a Mattress" is a whimsical retelling of the classic fairy tale "The Princess and the Pea," with a modern twist. Set in a kingdom where a domineering queen has decreed that no one may marry until her son, Prince Dauntless, finds a suitable bride, chaos ensues as potential princesses vie for his affection. Enter Princess Winnifred, a feisty and unconventional contender whose arrival shakes up the royal court and tests the boundaries of love, loyalty, and happily ever after. Filled with hilarious antics, memorable characters, and toe-tapping musical numbers, "Once Upon a Mattress" is a delightful romp that offers a fresh take on a timeless tale.

From the moment the curtains rose, audiences were transported to a kingdom far, far away, where a quirky queen, a dashing prince, and a colorful cast of characters embarked on a whimsical quest for true love.  The vibrant performances, witty dialogue, and catchy musical numbers had attendees of all ages captivated from start to finish.

Leading the ensemble was Zoe Rock, who embodied the role of Princess Winnifred with infectious charm and spunky determination. Her rendition of "Shy" showcased both her vocal prowess and comedic timing, drawing laughter and applause from the audience. Opposite her, Kayleigh Hannah portrayed the formidable Queen Aggravain with deliciously villainous flair, commanding the stage with each withering glare and cutting remark.

Aariz Mujtaba impressed as the hapless Prince Dauntless, infusing the character with endearing naivety and a heartfelt yearning for true love. His chemistry with Rock's Winnifred was palpable, particularly during their tender duet, "In a Little While," which resonated with sweetness and sincerity.

The supporting cast, including a wizard, jester, knights, ladies, and ensemble, added depth and color to the production, with standout moments including the rousing number, "Opening for a Princess" led by Prince Dauntless, Lady Larkin, Ladies, and Knights. The choreography was lively and well-executed, enhancing the energy of each musical number and transporting the audience to the bustling streets of the kingdom.

A special commendation must be given to the pit orchestra, under the expert direction of Mr. Adessa.  Their dynamic performances brought the score to life, providing a rich and immersive musical backdrop for the actors on stage.  Particularly memorable was their interpretation of "Spanish Panic," which crackled with energy and excitement, perfectly complementing the on-stage action.

Behind the scenes, countless hours of dedication and hard work went into bringing "Once Upon a Mattress" to the stage.  In rigorous rehearsals, the students demonstrated a commitment to excellence that was truly commendable.  Their passion and enthusiasm shone through in every scene, showcasing their immense talent and creativity.

As the final curtain fell on this unforgettable production, it was evident that the cast and crew of Mount Olive Middle School's "Once Upon a Mattress" had left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of attending.  Their collective efforts had not only entertained audiences but also served as a testament to the power of teamwork, dedication, and the arts in education.

For more information and a closer look at the cast, crew, and production details, visit the playbill link: Mount Olive Middle School Drama Club's "Once Upon a Mattress" Playbill.