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About Once Upon a Mattress
Performance Details
- Genre
- Theater
- Venue
- Palace Theatre - PA
- Location
- Greensburg, PA
- Next Date
- 4/24/2026
About This Performance
Once Upon a Mattress is a delightfully irreverent musical comedy that puts a fresh, feminist spin on the classic fairy tale "The Princess and the Pea." Created by Mary Rodgers (music), Marshall Barer (lyrics), and Jay Thompson (book), this Tony Award-nominated musical premiered in 1959 and became a beloved staple of American musical theater. The show is perhaps best known for launching Carol Burnett's career when she originated the role of the spirited Princess Winnifred in the original Off-Broadway production.
Expect an evening filled with witty dialogue, catchy songs, and plenty of physical comedy as the story follows the unconventional Princess Winnifred ("Fred") who arrives at the castle to win Prince Dauntless's heart. Unlike traditional princess tales, this heroine is bold, athletic, and refreshingly outspoken. The musical features memorable numbers like "Shy" and "In a Little While," along with dance sequences that showcase both elegant court choreography and Winnifred's more boisterous movements. It's perfect for families and anyone who enjoys clever wordplay and characters who challenge royal expectations.
The historic Waterville Opera House provides an intimate and elegant setting for this charming production. Built in 1902, this beautifully restored venue in downtown Waterville offers excellent sightlines and acoustics that allow every joke and musical moment to land with full impact. The Opera House's classic architecture and warm atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for this fairy tale with a twist, making audiences feel transported to a magical kingdom where princesses can be both royal and relatable.
Browse the available dates on CultureTicks to secure your seats for this enchanting and empowering musical adventure.
What to Expect
Dress Code
Smart casual to business casual is appropriate for most theater performances.
Arrival
Arrive 15-30 minutes early. Latecomers may be seated at the discretion of the venue.
During the Show
Silence your phone. Applause is welcome between pieces or at the end of each act.
Reviews & Press
Reviews Coming Soon
Critical reviews and press coverage for Once Upon a Mattress will appear here as they become available. Check the Dates & Tickets tab for upcoming performances.
Venue Guide: Palace Theatre - PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Once Upon a Mattress
Where is Once Upon a Mattress being performed?
Once Upon a Mattress is being performed at Palace Theatre - PA. Check the venue section on this page for directions, parking information, and nearby dining options.
How long is Once Upon a Mattress?
Performance lengths vary. Check the event details section for specific runtime information. Most performances include an intermission. We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before showtime.
Is Once Upon a Mattress suitable for children?
Check the event details for age recommendations. If none are listed, contact the venue directly. Many cultural performances welcome audiences of all ages, though some may have mature themes.
What is the dress code for Once Upon a Mattress?
Dress codes vary by venue and event type. Most performing arts events have a smart casual to business casual dress code. For opening nights or galas, more formal attire may be expected.
Can I get a refund for Once Upon a Mattress tickets?
Refund policies vary by event and ticket provider. Review the refund policy on your ticket confirmation. For cancellations or rescheduled performances, ticket holders are typically notified by email with options.