Appalachian State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance and the Hayes School of Music will present the Broadway musical “Once Upon a Mattress” from April 15 to 19 at Valborg Theatre on the Boone campus. The production involves over 100 students in the cast, orchestra, and crew, with rehearsals and technical preparations beginning February 15.
“This collaboration truly exemplifies the creative synergy between the Department of Theatre and Dance and the Hayes School of Music, highlighting the strengths of our artistic programs,” said Dr. Soo Goh, interim director of the Hayes School of Music. “The production will bring together the creative strengths of both programs for a charming tale of life, heart and humor, and it will surely be a delight for our students and our community.”
“Once Upon a Mattress” is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea.” The musical first appeared in 1959 with music by Mary Rodgers, lyrics by Marshall Barer, and a book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller, and Marshall Barer. The show is presented through Concord Theatricals.
Mike Helms, chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance, said: “It’s great to be teaming up again with the Hayes School of Music. The last time we did something on this scale was ‘Sweeney Todd’ in 2018, and before that, ‘Kiss Me, Kate’ in 2014. Those collaborations showed us just how much our students gain — creatively and professionally — when we work side by side.”
Kevin Warner leads as director and choreographer for this year’s production after six months working with his team. Warner stated: “There’s a real spark when our programs come together, and I can’t wait to see where this collaboration takes us.”
Music direction comes from Dr. Joby Bell and Dr. Tyler Young from Hayes School of Music. Live accompaniment will be provided by the Appalachian Symphony Orchestra under Dr. Alexandra Dee in Valborg Theatre’s renovated orchestra pit—a project funded by alumna Maxine McCall.
Design faculty John Marty (lighting), Mike Helms (set design), Martha Marking (costumes), along with senior Echo McArthur as stage manager contribute to production efforts.
Young commented: “I am certain our students will benefit greatly from this opportunity as we combine musicianship, artistry, movement and acting into a grand performance all backed by a faculty with decades of experience. We will learn and grow as a collective — our students will flourish and the faculty will bond to create the community we know as Appalachian State University.”
Five performances are scheduled April 15–19 at Valborg Theatre; tickets are available through phone or online via Schaefer Center for Performing Arts.
On April 16 there will be an educational performance for regional K-12 students as part of APPlause! K-12 Performing Arts Series led by graduate student Marin Kimpton.
The Department of Theatre & Dance is one among seven departments within Appalachian State University’s College of Fine & Applied Arts. It offers transformative experiences aimed at building compassionate communities through theatre arts.
Appalachian State University provides more than 150 undergraduate majors alongside over 80 graduate programs across its campuses—including Boone—and online platforms serving over 21,000 students statewide [source]. As part of the University of North Carolina System, App State maintains developed facilities spanning about 1,200 acres while receiving national recognition for academics, innovation, value,and sustainability.
For more information about these academic offerings or upcoming events visit their respective websites.
