Armstrong Community Theater's summer musical to showcase medieval mayhem at Casino Theatre
Armstrong Community Theater is wrapping up rehearsals for its annual summer musical “Once Upon a Mattress.”
The actors will take to the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, July 22 and 23, and 2 p.m. Sunday, July 24, at the Casino Theatre in Vandergrift.
Director David Emanuelson said the audience can expect a humorous performance.
“I absolutely love this musical because there are so many comedic moments that stick with you,” Emanuelson said.
Founded in 2002, Armstrong Community Theater is dedicated to providing a positive outlet for artistic expression.
Lead actors include Karissa Lloyd as Minstrel, Cortney Bavera as Princess No. 12, Cathy Lippert as Wizard, Kaitlyn Satterfield as Lady Larken, Emily Younkins as Queen Aggravain, Paul Wright as Dauntless, Dwight Snyder as King Sextimus the Silent, Mason Edwards as Jester, Tyler Venezie as Sir Studley, Cara Davis as Luce, Caitlin Welton as Lady Rowena, Hannah Younkins as Lady Merrill, Ava Formaini as Lady Lucille, Devon McCullough as Sir Harry, and LeNora Emanuelson as Princess Winnifred.
The production, set in medieval times, will make use of the theater’s state-of-the-art projector.
“We’re able to craft beautiful backdrops and incredible lighting,” said lighting designer James Baker.
The musical is a twist on Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale of “The Princess and the Pea.”
Jen Long returns as choreographer, and J.C. Gibson is the soundboard operator.
The live orchestra will be conducted by Michael Rudick.
The show is suitable for all ages.
“Our goal is to provide audiences with the same energy that Carol Burnett had over 60 years ago for some incredible laughs and a great retelling of ‘The Princess and the Pea,’ ” Emanuelson said.
Burnett originated the role of Winnifred and was nominated for a Tony Award in 1959.
Sarah Jessica Parker played the same part in the Broadway revival, and Tracey Ullman and Zooey Deschanel were featured in the Disney television movie in 2005.
The cast features thespians of all ages from 9 to 99.
Emily Younkins is cast as Queen Aggravain and is channeling her inner meanness in preparation for her performance.
“I love the character because she’s a little mean and more outspoken than I am in real life. I always thought playing a Disney villian would be the most fun part, and this is the closest I’ve gotten,” Younkins said.
“This cast is made up of students, teachers and finance, health care and IT professionals,” Emanuelson said. ”We’ve all worked incredibly hard, and we’re so excited to open this weekend.”
Karissa Lloyd portrays Minstrel, a role that provides interaction with the audience.
“I’ve never played in a musical where I get to interact with the audience. It’s also my first gender-bent role, and it doesn’t change anything about the show, but it’s fun nonetheless. ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ is a funny, beloved musical that sits purely in the trope of retelling a fairy tale. I adore that,” Lloyd said.
Vandergrift Councilwoman Marilee Kessler noted the caliber of theater entertainment found locally should not be dismissed.
“It’s such fun to see, and it sure beats driving into the city, too,” Kessler said. “We have so many talented folks in our area. The children’s musical is such a good thing for the kids — a great learning experience for them in many ways.”
Tickets are $18 each and can be purchased at the door or online at armstrongcommunitytheater.square.site.
Joyce Hanz is a native of Charleston, S.C. and is a features reporter covering the Pittsburgh region. She majored in media arts and graduated from the University of South Carolina. She can be reached at jhanz@triblive.com
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