Before Warren students, faculty, and staff took off for spring break, the Warren theatre program had quite an exciting weekend of shows! On March 14th and 15th, a handful of Warren’s very best, creative-minded students performed in Warren’s rendition of “Once Upon A Mattress!”
The cast and crews worked together for months prior to get their show stage-ready, and the fairy-tale product did not disappoint! The large ensemble numbers such as “Opening for a Princess” and “Spanish Panic” displayed the cast’s well-rehearsed song, dance, and storytelling.
This quirky–though not-quite storybook–tale can be most characterized by the stand-out performances from some of Warren’s most talented students. The characters from this play are known for their loud and boisterous nature, and it was no easy feat for our actors to step into the roles. In terms of acting and vocal capability, this show was a stand-out because of our brilliant student cast.
The leading lady of this show, Winnifred the Woebegone, was played most impressively by senior actress, Ellyana Maggiore. Ellyana took the stage by storm with her vibrant performance, constantly leaving the audience in laughter and smiles. Her natural chemistry with Prince Dauntless the drab, played by the gifted Ryan Macblane, made for an engaging and playful show. Though Ellyana’s character might not have been the best at making new friends in the castle, she definitely had our hearts from her first note. Or should I say her first swim? Congratulations Ellyana for such an outstanding closing show to your high school career!
This story would not have been complete without the skillful work of senior Lauren Mangler as the exuberant Queen Aggravain. Lauren is a natural leader on the stage, and demonstrated her well-trained acting skills in every scene of this show. If you were not there to see the wonder of her Act I monologue, amusing motherly command, or witty authority, you missed out a great deal! It’s no wonder her character was also a crowd favorite, as Lauren is also a member of Warren’s comedy improv troupe, Giggles ‘N Bits. Round of applause, Lauren!
Senior Makenzie Lazar gave a stunning performance as Lady Larkin alongside scene and song partner Rhae Binoya as Sir Harry. Makenzie’s passionate performance is no surprise given her extensive experience in Warren’s drama program. She has blossomed into such a fabulous performer over the past four years, and she was an absolute treat for anyone who came to this show! Lady Larkin led with her heart, and it is no doubt that Makenzie does as well. With such an elegant stage presence and graceful voice, it’d be hard to not enjoy her work in this year’s musical!
Other notable performances came from seniors Addie Piskiewicz and Favour Ubaka, who both played members of the royal council and stunned the audience with their joyful storytelling. Addie’s opening number was a highlight worthy of accolades, as the Minstrel narrated the story with both charm
and humor. Favour, as always, brought an irreplaceable light to the stage. Though she played a crucial character in the fairytale’s turning point, the Wizard needed no magic to sparkle on stage.
Remarkably, these stars weren’t the only seniors in the show.
Several more actors took their final bows for Warren theatre in March. Though we are sad to see you go, we are so proud of the fine arts students who contributed to this show. Keep up the good work, Blue Devils!!
