Another fairy tale comes to the Kilauea Theater stage Feb. 7-23 in Volcano.
Another fairy tale comes to the Kilauea Theater stage Feb. 7-23 in Volcano.
For the past two summers, KDEN (Kilauea Drama &Entertainment Network) has brought fairy tales to life with Rodgers &Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” and Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.”
This time around, it will be the musical comedy version of “The Princess and the Pea,” “Once Upon A Mattress,” with music by Mary Rodgers, lyrics by Marshall Barer and book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller and Marshall Barer.
“This delightful show marked the Broadway debut of later stage and TV personality Carol Burnett, who originated the role of Princess Winnifred,” said KDEN Executive Director Suzi Bond, who will direct, with vocal direction by Pedro Ka‘awaloa, who also plays the Jester.
The role of Winnifred is being brought to life by Joy Sever, with Stephen Bond as the hapless Price Dauntless. Stephanie Becher plays the overbearing Queen Aggravain, with Andy Colberg as the mute King Sextimus. The lovers Sir Harry and Lady Larken are portrayed by Byron Karr and Kait Wilson. Chris Tomich keeps the plot moving as the Minstrel and Douglas Wayman plays The Wizard and is choreographing the major musical numbers.
The cast is rounded out by the chorus: Emerson Aynessazian, Tanya Aynessazian, Julia Cellini, Nathan Ducasse, Kathy Frankovic, Roch Jones, Billy Shackley, Britten Traughber, and Elizabeth Young. The orchestra of 15 local musicians will be conducted by Armando Mendoza.
Set design is by Jonathan Sudler, who returns to KDEN and the Big Island after eight years.
Performances will be at KMC’s Kilauea Theater at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2:30 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $15/$12/$10, available at Kilauea General Store, Keaau Natural Foods, The Most Irresistible Shop and at the door. For additional ticket information, call 982-7344 or email kden73@aol.com.