The latest local theatre group’s production is bound to hit the right ‘spot’ with audiences.
Klaglahachie Fine Arts Society has gone medieval with its musical comedy adaptation of the well-known story The Princess and the Pea and it’s filled with hilarious notes that will be sure to capture everyone’s attention.
Called Once Upon a Mattress, the play’s focus is on most of the characters being ‘extremely motivated’ in getting the prince and princess married to break the curse put on the kingdom so others can marry and go on with their lives.
Where the fun comes in is the antics Queen Aggravain performs in order to keep her son the prince from being married as well as the work done by other characters in breaking down the barrier to the marriage.
Director Kevin Ferguson explained the play is a bit of a departure from past productions, but remains friendly for all ages.
“Musically, it is phenomenal and our actors and actresses do a great job in conjunction with the musical director (Althea Lewis) in bringing out the harmonies,” said Ferguson.
Kynna Hvizdos, who plays one of the main characters, Princess Winnifred, enjoys acting a different take on a classic play.
“It’s really nice to do something that hasn’t been seen before, with no expectations from the audience,” she said.
“They will be surprised, as it’s super funny and it has been fun to be able to play with the characters and see what comes out.”
Another of the main characters is Queen Aggravain — played by Rhonda Merrick — whose character is described as nasty with an interesting relationship with her prince of a son, something that gives this play more contrast than previous ones.
“She has this ‘thing’ with her son and does all she can to sabotage him (from) getting married. In that way, it’s a bit more adult, but it does go too far,” Merrick noted, adding there are a lot of upfront and hidden jokes in the play.
Perry Wilson, who plays the honoured though egotistical knight Sir Harry, joined Merrick in acknowledging the work done by the cast and volunteers on getting a complex set and costumes ready for the production.
“It all looks pretty dramatic and more ornate than any of our previous plays, which were more technically complex. That’s due to wanting to portray the royalty aspect of the play as much of it takes place in the royal court,” he stated,
The show, taking place at the Ponoka United Church, will run 7:30 p.m. evening performances on Nov. 25 as well as Dec. 1, 2, 8 and 9 with 2 p.m matinees on Nov. 26, Dec. 3 and 10. The evening shows include a dinner theatre option with a fully catered menu served at 6 p.m.
Ticket are still available. For more information or to purchase, call (403) 783-4081 or go to www.kfatheatre.com.
