"Once Upon a Mattress," a musical comedy with music by Mary Rodgers and lyrics by Marshall Barer, based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale "The Princess and the Pea," is a beloved classic. This whimsical retelling offers a fresh, humorous perspective on the original story, focusing on the princess's journey to find love and acceptance. Understanding the play script reveals its clever satire, delightful characters, and enduring appeal.
What is the Plot of Once Upon a Mattress?
The play centers around Princess Winnifred, a charming but unconventional princess, who must prove her royal suitability by passing a seemingly impossible test: sleeping on a mattress piled high with twenty mattresses and a pea. The kingdom of Synderella is ruled by the Queen Aggravain, who is fiercely protective of her son, Prince Dauntless, and determined to keep him from marrying anyone she deems unworthy. Winnifred's quest to win the Prince's hand is fraught with hilarious obstacles, misunderstandings, and the meddling of the Queen and her court. The script expertly intertwines romantic intrigue with social commentary, offering a critique of societal expectations and rigid class structures.
Who are the Main Characters in Once Upon a Mattress?
Princess Winnifred: The protagonist, Winnifred is a spirited and unconventional princess who challenges the rigid social norms of the kingdom. Her determination and resilience are key to the play's comedic and heartwarming elements. She's not your typical damsel in distress; she actively pursues her happiness.
Prince Dauntless: The Prince is portrayed as somewhat naive and easily influenced by his mother. The script cleverly uses his character to highlight the absurdity of the Queen's control and the stifling nature of courtly life.
Queen Aggravain: The antagonist, the Queen is a formidable and comedic character. Her obsession with controlling her son's life and maintaining her power drives the plot and provides many of the play's funniest moments. Her scheming and manipulations are a central source of conflict.
King Sextimus the Silent: The King, largely speechless due to a mysterious ailment, adds a layer of quirky humor to the play. His inability to speak becomes a running gag and a source of comedic relief, offering a silent commentary on the court's antics.
Lord and Lady Larkin: The Larkin's add more comedic depth to the narrative with their own quirks and schemes. Their role highlights the absurdity of courtly life and further emphasizes the rigidity of Synderella's social structures.
What are the Main Themes of Once Upon a Mattress?
The play explores several key themes, including:
- Challenging Social Norms: Winnifred's journey directly challenges the rigid social expectations placed upon women and princesses in the kingdom.
- The Power of Love: The play emphasizes the importance of genuine love and connection, contrasting it with the manipulative and controlling nature of the Queen's influence.
- Appearance vs. Reality: The play satirizes the superficiality of judging people based on appearances and social standing.
- Finding Your Voice: Winnifred's determination to find her own voice and stand up for herself is a powerful message, especially considering the societal constraints of the time.
What are the Songs in Once Upon a Mattress?
The musical numbers in "Once Upon a Mattress" are integral to the storytelling and character development. The songs amplify the comedic elements and underscore the emotional depth of the characters' journeys. Some of the most memorable include:
- "In a Kingdom of Their Own"
- "The Minstrel Song"
- "Right As Rain"
- "Swamped"
Where Can I Find the Play Script?
Unfortunately, I cannot provide direct links to download copyrighted material. However, you can likely find the script through reputable online bookstores or theatrical licensing companies. Searching for "Once Upon a Mattress script PDF" or contacting theatrical licensing agencies should provide you with avenues to legally obtain the script.
How is Once Upon a Mattress a Satire?
"Once Upon a Mattress" cleverly satirizes fairy tale tropes and societal expectations. By exaggerating the characters and their actions, the play highlights the absurdity of rigid social structures and the importance of challenging conventions. The Queen's over-the-top behavior and the ludicrous nature of the pea test serve as satirical elements that expose the flaws in the kingdom's system.
This in-depth look at "Once Upon a Mattress" provides a comprehensive understanding of its plot, characters, themes, and satirical elements. The play’s enduring popularity stems from its clever writing, memorable songs, and timeless themes that continue to resonate with audiences today.
