A controlling queen, countless mattresses, and a determined princess lead the stage with Once Upon A Mattress at the Chico Theater Company.
The witty, family-friendly musical based on the classic fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea” is running through May 17.
The Tony-nominated musical has delighted audiences for more than six decades. It also marked the major stage debut of comedy icon Carol Burnett as Princess Winnifred.
“It’s a story about realizing that no matter what pressures other people put on us to be a certain thing, as long as we stay true to ourselves, that's actually when we shine,” said Dani Bulot, who plays the princess in the Chico Theater Company performance.
The role of Princess Winnifred is intertwined with Bulot's career on stage. She first played the lead role at the age of 17.
Now, 39, Bulot takes on the role again that taught her the journey of self-acceptance and the importance of being true to herself.
“I just relate to her in the sense that in a world where there are so many stigmas around appearance and age and just all the things that people can use to describe someone externally, it's about who you are and what you can bring to the table, just as yourself,” Bulot said.
Actress Kayla Ballez is tackling new territory with the undertaking of the main antagonist, Queen Aggravain, who is the prince's mother and is very invested in who he marries. She creates all sorts of chaos for potential suitors.
“I've never played a character where I know that the audience is supposed to dislike me, but I feel like they'll like me, because of the comedy of it all,” Ballez said.
Although Princess Winnifred faces off against Queen Aggravain, both actors emphasize that the central message is Winnifred’s resilience and underdog spirit, as she persistently overcomes each challenge set before her.
“A great little farce of a story about being true to yourself, and that love overcomes anything, even an overbearing mother who maybe doesn't want you to get married,” Ballez said.
Despite the important life lessons, Ballez highlights that the show is also filled with laughter and touching moments, inviting everyone to enjoy a joyful night of theater.
“I love being able to put on a costume and step on stage, and not only feel like I'm portraying something, but I also enjoy bringing a show and bringing joy to others watching me on stage,” Ballez said.
