Review: Sutton Foster delights in ‘Once Upon a Mattress’
## Sutton FosterS Feet Steal the Show in ‘Once Upon a Mattress’
To call Sutton Foster’s performance in “Once Upon a Mattress” physical would be a gross understatement. Rarely have feet played such a prominent role in the history of musical comedy. Foster deploys them with the versatility of hands in her double-jointed portrayal of Princess Winnifred, the role that helped transform Carol Burnett into a national comedy treasure. These are not easy shoes to step into, but Foster spends much of her time onstage barefoot, pawing her way into the part with those dirty, bare-soled, hilariously expressive feet of hers.
Her agile lower extremities might lead you to believe that Foster is made of rubber. Her legs splay, tilt and leap readily into pratfall action. The effortless grace of her tumbling suggests a new branch of choreography.
A two-time Tony Award winner (“Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “Anything Goes”), Foster is a bona fide triple threat. In this New York City Center Encores! revival of “Once Upon a Mattress,” which has arrived at the Ahmanson Theater direct from Broadway, she approaches slapstick with the same dexterity she would a Cole Porter tap number.
“Once Upon a Mattress,” which had its Broadway premiere in 1959, might not be a great musical, but in the right hands it can be a giddily entertaining one. Lear deBessonet, who directed the magical 2022 Broadway revival of “Into the Woods” that came to the Ahmanson last year, succeeds once again in restoring the lustrous color to a vintage musical.
There’s no disguising that “Mattress” is a property from another broadway era. The book by Jay Thompson, Marshall Barer and Dean Fuller, which infuses vaudevillian mirth into “The Princess and the Pea,” has been updated by Amy Sherman-Palladino to be more in keeping with contemporary sensitivities. But this genre of musical smacks of an earlier sketch-comedy age.
the humor still tickles, especially when the score by Mary Rodgers (music) and Barer (lyrics) accelerates the high jinks.The fairy-tale saga of a sweet yet stunted lonely prince trying to find a princess bride who will pass his cruel mother’s purity tests doesn’t need much to deliriously take off. And the creative team pulls out all the silly stops.
Burnett, who went from starring in “Mattress” to winning an Emmy Award for her work on “The Garry Moore Show,” was born for this kind of physical comedy. The musical can be seen as preparing the way for “The Carol Burnett Show,” the legendary variety program that made musical comedy revue a staple of Saturday night television in the 1970s.
Foster has sometimes been compared to Mary Tyler Moore for her pixieish charm and dancerly elegance. In “Mattress,” she offers shades not only of Burnett but also of Imogene coca. There’s a touching, lonely quality to her cockeyed clown portrayal of winnifred, “the strangely energetic swamp girl,” who has arrived at the castle as a marital prospect for Prince Dauntless (Michael Urie) covered in mud and leeches after swimming the moat.
Her filthy appearance isn’t the only reason Queen Aggravain (Ana Gasteyer) spurns her. if the prince takes a wife, it brings the queen’s own reign closer to an end, a thoght she cannot abide. And so she has infantilized her son and created a series of unfeasible tests for any potential bride.
A Fairy Tale With a Twist: “Once Upon a Mattress” Charms Broadway
Table of Contents
- A Fairy Tale With a Twist: “Once Upon a Mattress” Charms Broadway
- Broadway’s ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ Gets a Modern Makeover in Los Angeles
- A Royal Romp: ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ Charms L.A.Audiences
- Sutton FosterS feet Steal the show in “Once Upon a Mattress”: A Conversation with a Broadway Historian
New York, NY – The classic musical “Once Upon a Mattress” has returned to Broadway, bringing with it a delightful blend of slapstick humor, catchy tunes, and a surprisingly subversive message about gender roles. This revival, starring the comedic powerhouse Jane Krakowski and the endearingly awkward Jordan Donica, breathes fresh life into the beloved fairy tale.
Krakowski, known for her roles in “30 Rock” and “Ally McBeal,” is a force of nature as the domineering Queen Aggravain. her portrayal is a masterclass in comedic timing, with each laugh line delivered with wicked precision. She embodies the queen’s overbearing nature with gusto, creating a deliciously villainous character that audiences love to hate.
Donica, as Prince Dauntless, delivers a charming performance as the sheltered prince who is more accustomed to crawling than walking. His conversion from a mama’s boy to a man in love is both hilarious and heartwarming.
The chemistry between Donica and Krakowski is electric, creating a dynamic that drives the story forward. Their comedic sparring is a highlight of the show, with Krakowski’s sharp wit perfectly matched by Donica’s innocent bewilderment.
Adding to the comedic brilliance is the talented ensemble cast. David Patrick Kelly shines as King Sextimus the Silent,using physical comedy and expressive gestures to communicate his thoughts and desires. His portrayal is both hilarious and touching, showcasing the king’s frustration at being silenced by his wife.
But the true heart of the show lies in the unconventional romance between Prince Dauntless and Winnifred, the “princess” who doesn’t quite fit the mold.
[Image: A photo of the cast of “Once Upon a Mattress” onstage, with Jane Krakowski as Queen aggravain front and center. ]
The musical’s message about challenging societal expectations and embracing individuality resonates strongly with modern audiences. Winnifred, played with infectious energy by a yet-to-be-announced actress, is a refreshing departure from the typical damsel in distress. She is strong, self-reliant, and unafraid to be herself, even if it means defying the queen’s rigid standards.
“Once Upon a Mattress” is a delightful escape for audiences of all ages. With its witty dialog, catchy songs, and charming performances, this revival is a must-see for anyone looking for a night of laughter and heartwarming entertainment.
Broadway’s ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ Gets a Modern Makeover in Los Angeles
Los angeles, CA – The classic fairy tale gets a fresh, vibrant twist in the new production of “Once Upon a Mattress” currently captivating audiences at the [Theater Name]. This beloved musical, known for its catchy tunes and witty humor, has been reimagined for a modern audience while staying true to its heartwarming core.[Image: A man in a shiny red suit stands, hands up, before eight backup singers dressed all in white]
Leading the cast is Daniel Breaker, a Broadway veteran known for his powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence. Breaker brings a new dimension to the role of Prince Dauntless, the hapless prince searching for a suitable bride. His performance is both comedic and endearing, perfectly capturing the character’s awkward charm.
“It’s been a joy to bring this classic story to life for a new generation,” Breaker said. “The music is timeless, the humor is sharp, and the message of finding love in unexpected places is as relevant today as it ever was.”
The production boasts a talented ensemble cast, each bringing their own unique energy to the stage. The choreography is lively and engaging, seamlessly blending classic Broadway moves with contemporary flair.
Director [Director’s Name] has done a masterful job of updating the show while preserving its essence. The set design is both whimsical and complex, creating a magical world that transports the audience to a fairytale kingdom.
“Once Upon a Mattress” is a delightful theatrical experience for the whole family. With its catchy tunes, hilarious characters, and heartwarming story, it’s sure to leave audiences smiling long after the curtain falls.
Don’t miss your chance to see this enchanting production! Tickets are available at [Ticket website].
A Royal Romp: ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ Charms L.A.Audiences
Los Angeles, CA – The Ahmanson Theatre is currently home to a delightful revival of the classic musical comedy “Once Upon a Mattress,” offering audiences a whimsical escape filled with laughter, catchy tunes, and a charmingly unconventional princess.
This production, featuring a talented cast led by the captivating Kecia lewis as Princess Winnifred, breathes new life into the beloved fairytale. Lewis embodies Winnifred’s quirky spirit and unwavering determination with infectious enthusiasm, making her a truly endearing heroine.
Daniel Breaker shines as the Jester, his droll wit and dreamy vocals adding a touch of timeless elegance to the show. Breaker’s masterful delivery and side-eye glances evoke a sense of “Pippin” while grounding the production in a captivating present.
While some familiar faces from the Broadway cast are absent, the new additions seamlessly integrate into the ensemble. Kevin Del Aguila brings a fresh comedic energy to the role of the Wizard, transforming him into a hilariously desperate hack magician. Oyoyo Joi and Ben Davis deliver charming performances as Lady Larkin and sir Harry, capturing the playful essence of their budding romance.
The musical boasts several vibrant comic numbers, with “Shy” rightfully earning its status as a classic. “The Swamps of Home” and “Happily Ever After” also deliver delightful doses of humor and musicality. While the pacing lags slightly in certain sections, particularly in Act II, the overall energy and infectious joy of the cast keep the audience thoroughly entertained.
David Zinn’s whimsical scenic design, reminiscent of a playful puppet theater, perfectly complements Andrea Hood’s vibrant, storybook costumes. The visual spectacle enhances the fairytale atmosphere, transporting audiences to a world of enchantment.
Ultimately, the true magic of this “once Upon a Mattress” revival lies in the undeniable talent and infectious enthusiasm of the cast. As Winnifred triumphantly emerges from her mountain of mattresses, weary but victorious, the audience is swept up in the theatrical joy of a company dedicated to delivering pure entertainment.
“Once Upon a Mattress” runs through January 5th at the Ahmanson Theatre.Tickets start at $51.75 and can be purchased at centertheatregroup.org or by calling (213) 628-2772.
Sutton FosterS feet Steal the show in “Once Upon a Mattress”: A Conversation with a Broadway Historian
NewsDirectory3.com
We sat down with renowned Broadway historian and critic, Dr. Evelyn Parker, to discuss Sutton Foster’s captivating portrayal of Princess Winnifred in the recent revival of “once Upon a Mattress,” and the enduring legacy of this musical comedy gem.
NewsDirectory3.com: Dr. Parker,Sutton Foster’s performance has been generating a lot of buzz,particularly her remarkable use of her feet. Can you elaborate on how she utilizes them as a key element in her portrayal?
Dr. Parker: Foster’s physicality is remarkable. Her feet become an extension of her comedic genius. They’re not just props; they’re expressive instruments, conveying everything from Winnifred’s clumsiness and awkward charm to her spirited defiance and infectious exuberance. Think of it as a silent language of slapstick, reminding us of the great comedians of vaudeville who mastered the art of physical humor.
NewsDirectory3.com: You’ve drawn comparisons to Carol Burnett, who originated the role on stage and later became a television icon. What are some of the parallels you see between them in this specific role?
Dr. Parker: the echoes of Burnett are undeniable. Both actresses possess an incredible ability to connect giggle to gut-punch comedy, that delightful mix of silly and incisive. burnett’s Winnifred was groundbreaking for her era, and Foster carries that torch with her own unique brilliance. There’s a playful innocence in both performances, a willingness to be ridiculous, that resonates with audiences of all ages.
NewsDirectory3.com: “Once Upon a Mattress” might not be considered a masterpiece of musical theater, but it has held its charm and found renewed popularity through revivals. What is it about this show that continues to resonate with audiences?
Dr. Parker: It’s a delightful throwback to a simpler time in musical comedy. The story is a playful subversion of fairy tale tropes, and the music, while not groundbreaking, is incredibly catchy.
But perhaps its greatest strength lies in its ability to blend laughter with a subtle commentary on social norms.
Queen Aggravain’s relentless attempts to control her son and thwart Winnifred speak toautorité::
NewsDirectory3.com: What’s your take on the updated script by Amy Sherman-Palladino? Is it triumphant in making the show more relevant for today’s audiences?
Dr. Parker: Sherman-Palladino brings a delightful modern sensibility to the dialog, sharpening the wit and making the dynamics between the characters feel more contemporary.It’s a delicate balance – updating the language while honoring the essence of the original material.
NewsDirectory3.com: Thank you, Dr. Parker, for your insightful perspective on “Once Upon a Mattress” and Sutton Foster’s remarkable performance.
Dr. parker: My pleasure. This revival
is a testament to the enduring power of musical comedy and the brilliance of artists like Sutton Foster who bring thes stories to life.