As we continue to move through the 2nd Semester, the Apex High Spring Musical is here! On February 28th and March 1st, the Apex Peak Players are bringing the iconic musical comedy Once Upon a Mattress to the Apex High stage! Continue reading this article to get more information about this exciting production!

Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale The Princess and the Pea, Once Upon a Mattress takes a unique and whimsical approach to the classic by adding its own humorous elements and musical adaptations, with music by Mary Rogers and lyrics by Marshall Bare. The story is set in the 15th century in a faraway medieval kingdom ruled by King Sextimus and Queen Agravaine. Because King Sextimus is under a curse that causes him to be mute, Queen Agravaine rules over the kingdom in an overbearing manner. She forbids her son, Prince Dauntless, to marry anyone unless the potential bride passes a very strict test. Moreover, she declares that no one in the kingdom can marry until her son marries a princess of royal blood. Will King Sextimus break the curse and gain the ability to talk again? Is Prince Dauntless going to successfully fulfill his mother’s wishes and marry a bride of true royal blood? Come watch the musical and find out if a happily ever after is truly just a pea away!

After interviewing Peyton Mason and Rylee Barbour, I was able to gain some insight into their experiences working on the production. Peyton Mason, who plays Lady Beatrice, mentioned that her favorite thing about working with the cast is the welcoming environment they were able to create while working on the show, “It’s a special experience when you can laugh and joke around with your castmates.” Additionally, she is the most excited for the audience to see the small silly moments in the show. “I definitely enjoyed, as a cast member, watching them be created, but seeing them from the audience’s perspective is completely different,” Peyton shares. Rylee Barbour, a member of the House Crew, has been focused on making sure everything is in order behind the scenes. She also emphasizes her belief in the importance of putting on a good first impression since the House Crew is the first people the audience is greeted with. Moreover, Rylee is especially excited to see everyone’s reactions from the audience and see the cast put on a wonderful show. “It’s so exciting to see them succeed!!” From both of their responses, it’s clear that the entire team has been working hard to bring this production to life. Be sure to come out and support them!

Tickets for Once Upon a Mattress are available now at www.seatyourself.biz/apex, with ticket prices ranging from $10 – $12. Watch the show on Friday, February 28th, at 7:00 PM, or choose from two performances on Saturday, March 1st, at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Additionally, there will be a special meet and greet with the cast after the 2:00 PM show on March 1st! Make sure to grab your tickets – you wouldn’t want to miss it!