‘Once Upon a Mattress’ continues March 15 at Cape High

Cape Henlopen High School theatre student performances of “Once Upon a Mattress” will continue at 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday, March 15 and 16, and 2 p.m., Sunday, March 17, at 1250 Kings Highway, Lewes.

A comedic reimagining of “The Princess and the Pea” fairy tale, the selection exposes theatre students to some of the classical musical theatre canon.

“Last year, our musical was more on the contemporary side, and because we wanted to work with them on some different techniques, we decided on something a little more classic for this year’s performance,” said Sadie Andros, theatre director. “We also felt like this musical would really showcase our incredible talent here at Cape and is a true collaboration between all of the performing arts teachers here at the high school.”

“Once Upon a Mattress” is set many moons ago in a far-off place. Queen Aggravain decreed no couples could marry until her son, Prince Dauntless, found a bride. Princesses came from far and wide to win the hand of the prince, but none could pass the impossible tests set for them by the queen. That is, until the “shy” swamp princess, Winnifred the Woebegone, showed up. Would she be able to pass the sensitivity test, marry her prince and help Lady Larken and Sir Harry to the altar?

Carried on a wave of wonderful songs, by turns hilarious and raucous, romantic and melodic, this rollicking spin on the classic tale provides some side-splitting shenanigans. For after all, a princess is a delicate thing.

“The students have worked really hard to bring this comedic kingdom to life. I am confident they’ll put on a wonderful performance this weekend, and it will be one the entire community will enjoy,” said Andros.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. To purchase, go to our.show/capetheatre/mattress or buy at the door.