Anticipation is building at PAHS as the drama club prepares to bring Once Upon a Mattress to life on stage this spring. With rehearsals already well underway, cast members are balancing choreography, line work, and full-cast practices in the weeks leading up to production. Among them is Anna Luckinbill, whose enthusiasm for the show reflects the dedication shared across the entire company.
Once Upon a Mattress tells the story of a kingdom ruled by the formidable Queen Aggravain, a fiercely protective mother determined to control every aspect of her son Prince Dauntless’s life—especially his marriage prospects. Until the prince finds a suitable bride, no one else in the kingdom is allowed to marry, leaving couples anxiously awaiting his match. Hope arrives in the form of Princess Winnifred, an unconventional royal discovered in the swamps and brought to the castle to undergo a series of tests that will determine whether she is worthy of becoming the next princess.
Luckinbill plays Lady Larken, a young noblewoman caught in the urgency of the kingdom’s marital dilemma. Her character’s personal stakes heighten the emotional tension of the story and add another layer to the musical’s blend of humor and heart.
According to Luckinbill, the drama club is more than prepared for opening night. The cast receives detailed rehearsal schedules and currently meets weekly as a full group, with daily rehearsals and weekend practices approaching as the performance draws nearer. From blocking scenes to polishing musical numbers, the students are working diligently to ensure the show is performance-ready.
When asked which moments she is most excited to see come together on stage, Luckinbill highlighted two standout numbers. “Shy,” Princess Winnifred’s signature song, promises to be a lively, high-energy performance featuring impressive vocals and dynamic choreography. Another favorite is “Spanish Panic,” a large ensemble piece that showcases the cast’s movement and theatricality. Both numbers, she noted, capture the vibrant spirit that makes the musical so entertaining.
As the season progresses, the production also marks an emotional transition for the department. Luckinbill shared that she will miss the graduating seniors—both performers and members of the technical crew—who have helped shape the drama community. Their leadership and friendship have left a lasting impression on younger cast members.
Looking ahead, Luckinbill is eager to step into a larger role within the program next year. Reflecting on her time in drama, she described live musical performance as an almost overwhelming yet beautiful experience—one that brings people together in a uniquely powerful way. For her, the stage is not just a place to perform but a space that fosters connection, growth, and creativity.
With a committed cast, a beloved musical, and a strong sense of community behind it, PAHS’s upcoming production of Once Upon a Mattress is shaping up to be a memorable highlight of the school year.