"I'm in love with a girl named F R E D!" The new revival of Once Upon A Mattress at the Hudson Theatre is a delightful homage to a classic musical, and Sutton Foster's star turn as Princess Winnifred is nothing short of magical. This production breathes new life into the beloved show, offering a fresh take while staying true to its whimsical roots.
Foster, renowned for her extraordinary talent and charisma, delivers a performance brimming with energy and heart. Her portrayal of Winnifred is both endearing and powerful, showcasing her remarkable vocal range and impeccable comedic timing. Foster brings a modern sensibility to the role, effortlessly blending classic charm with contemporary flair.
The revival’s staging and design are equally impressive, creating a visually captivating experience that complements the show’s playful tone. The Hudson Theatre’s intimate setting allows for a dynamic interplay between the cast and the audience, making the fantastical world of Once Upon A Mattress feel both grand and cozy.
The scenic design is imaginative, with vibrant colors and creative set pieces that transport viewers into the whimsical realm of the fairy tale. Director Lear deBassonet has orchestrated a production that is both visually stunning and narratively engaging, ensuring that each moment is filled with laughter, romance, and charm.
For me, this revival is particularly special. Once Upon A Mattress was the very first show I participated in as a freshman in high school (shoutout to Triton Mustangs!), and it holds a treasure trove of fond memories. The production introduced me to the joy of theater and led to the formation of many lifelong friendships.
The quirky songs and playful dialogue of the musical have stayed with me all these years, serving as a nostalgic reminder of that formative period. Experiencing this revival has been a heartwarming journey back to those early days of my love of theater, and it has reaffirmed my love for this endearing story.
The musical numbers, including fan favorites like "Happily Ever After" and "Shy," are performed with infectious enthusiasm and polish. Each song is delivered with such vigor that it’s impossible not to be swept up in the fun and romance of the show. The supporting cast also shines, adding depth and humor to the production and ensuring that every aspect of the story is brought to life with energy and precision.
Lastly, the Hudson Theatre’s revival of Once Upon A Mattress is a must-see for anyone who cherishes musical theater. Whether you have a personal connection to the show or are simply a fan of great performances and engaging storytelling, this production offers a delightful escape into a world of fairy tale fun.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this enchanting revival—get your tickets before it’s gone and relive the magic of a classic musical brought to life with a fresh and captivating twist.
Starring alongside Sutton Foster are Drama Desk Award winner and SAG Award nominee Michael Urie (Spamalot, HBO’s “Shrinking”, “Ugly Betty”) as Prince Dauntlesss, Brooks Ashmanskas (The Prom, Fame Becomes Me) as The Wizard, Daniel Breaker (Passing Strange, Shrek) as The Jester, Will Chase (Mystery of Edwin Drood, “Nashville”) as Sir Harry, Nikki Renée Daniels (Company, Book of Mormon) returning as Lady Larken, David Patrick Kelly (An Enemy of the People, The Warriors) returning as King Sextimus, and Ana Gasteyer (“Saturday Night Live”, Wicked) as Queen Aggravain.
Rounding out the Broadway cast are Kara Lindsay (Wicked, Newsies), returning as the Standby Winnifred the Woebegone, Daniel Beeman, Wendi Bergamini, Cicily Daniels, Taylor Marie Daniel, Ben Davis, Sheldon Henry, Oyoyo Joi, Amanda Lamotte, Sarah Michele Lindsey, Michael Olaribigbe, Adam Roberts, Jeffrey Schecter, Darius Wright, and Richard Riaz Yoder.
Get your tickets to Once Upon A Mattress by clicking here. And, if you want to see my full interview with Sutton Foster be sure to click here--remember to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE!
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