"Once Upon a Mattress," a musical comedy based on the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale "The Princess and the Pea," offers a witty and charming take on the classic story. This beloved play, with its memorable songs and quirky characters, continues to delight audiences of all ages. This guide delves into the script, exploring its key themes, characters, and the unique comedic elements that make it a timeless classic.
What is the Play "Once Upon a Mattress" About?
The play reimagines the familiar fairytale, focusing on Princess Winnifred, a boisterous and unconventional princess who must prove her royal lineage by passing a seemingly simple test: sleeping on a mattress piled high with twenty mattresses. However, Queen Aggravain, the controlling and power-hungry mother of Prince Dauntless, makes this seemingly simple task impossibly difficult. The play explores themes of love, social commentary, and the absurdity of rigid social structures. It satirizes the often-unrealistic expectations placed upon women, particularly within royal circles. The humorous situations and witty dialogue make for a truly entertaining experience.
Who are the Main Characters in "Once Upon a Mattress"?
Several memorable characters drive the plot forward, each with their own unique quirks and motivations:
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Princess Winnifred: The central character, a spirited and unconventional princess who challenges the Queen's authority and ultimately wins the Prince's heart with her honesty and resilience.
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Prince Dauntless: A sweet but somewhat naive prince, constrained by his mother’s controlling nature, who falls for Winnifred's authentic personality.
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Queen Aggravain: The villain of the piece, a formidable and controlling woman who uses manipulation to maintain her power. She creates obstacles for Winnifred to prevent her from marrying Dauntless.
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King Sextimus the Silent: The meek and largely speechless King, controlled by his wife. His infrequent utterances often hold comedic weight.
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Lord and Lady Larkin: These comical characters add to the play's humor with their quirky interactions and witty remarks.
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Jester: The jester brings a lively energy to the play, often acting as a narrator and commentator on the action.
What are the Key Songs in "Once Upon a Mattress"?
The musical score plays a crucial role in developing the characters and enhancing the comedic elements. Some of the most memorable songs include:
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"In a Kingdom by the Sea": Sets the scene and introduces the story's setting and main characters.
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"The Ballad of the Mattress": Details the origins and significance of the mattress test, adding a layer of backstory.
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"Very Very Very Good": Demonstrates the absurdity of the Queen's actions, highlighting the play's satirical nature.
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"Swamp Song": This lively tune adds energy to the comedic aspects of the play.
How is the Play Funny?
The humor in "Once Upon a Mattress" stems from a variety of sources:
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Slapstick Comedy: Physical humor and exaggerated movements contribute to the comedic timing.
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Witty Dialogue: The script is filled with cleverly written lines that provide both comedic relief and insightful social commentary.
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Satire: The play satirizes societal expectations and the absurdities of royal life, which provides a layer of humor.
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Character Interactions: The interplay between the characters, especially the contrast between Winnifred's rebellious spirit and the Queen's rigid personality, leads to a series of comical confrontations.
What is the Ending of "Once Upon a Mattress"?
The ending is satisfyingly triumphant for Winnifred. Despite the Queen's numerous attempts to sabotage her, Winnifred's cleverness, resilience, and genuine nature ultimately win over the Prince and expose the Queen's manipulative tactics. The play concludes with Winnifred and Dauntless's marriage, signifying the triumph of love and authenticity over rigid societal norms.
Is "Once Upon a Mattress" Appropriate for Children?
"Once Upon a Mattress" is generally considered appropriate for children, although parental guidance may be advisable for very young viewers depending on their sensitivity to some of the comedic situations. The play’s humor is generally lighthearted and not offensive, emphasizing witty dialogue and slapstick rather than anything more mature. However, the content is mostly suitable for families.
This exploration provides a comprehensive overview of "Once Upon a Mattress," highlighting its key elements and answering common questions about this enduringly popular play. Its blend of humor, wit, and social commentary continues to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic of theatrical comedy.
