by Kayla Streight 25’ 

As the weather got colder, the Wyoming Seminary Players warmed up their skills for their production of Once Upon a Mattress. Performances were at the beginning of November. The cast and crew worked hard daily to prepare for a live audience. 

Once Upon a Mattress is a theatrical production about a strict queen, Aggravain, (played by Chloe Caputo ‘26), who doesn’t want her son, Prince Dauntless the Drab (played by Jacob Nivert ‘25) to be wed. In order to have Dauntless’ hand in marriage, potential suitors must pass a test, and the musical focuses on one particular suitor vying for his hand, Princess Winnifred (played by Rachel Lewis ‘25). 

The actors have worked hard on the show to ensure an optimal performance for viewers. Practices officially began September 9, only two weeks after the 2024-2025 school year began. After that, there were practices weekly. 

Practices consisted of music rehearsals, choreography sessions, and blocking practices. It was important to work on all of these individual pieces in order to put together the overall image. A constant effort was put into this show, which goes on behind the scenes. 

The cast hit the off-script date for all music lyrics, and the off-book date for lines was also achieved. Students were required to memorize their material a set date in advance to ensure that they were able to have more productive and successful rehearsals. 

The Sem theater department takes effort and engagement seriously. Students were required to attend every rehearsal unless they had a reason that was cleared by the director. If not, the student was at risk for their role to be given to another cast member. The actors were dedicated to giving their all for the benefit of the program.