"Once Upon a Mattress" at Lakeshore Players Theatre

The only thing I know about the 1960 Tony-nominated musical Once Upon a Mattress is that it was Carol Burnett's Broadway debut. I've never seen a production of it... until last weekend at Lakeshore Players Theatre. It's a weird and wacky show for sure, but I found it to be a lot of fun. And maybe also ahead of its time in its depiction of a princess who isn't the typically demure and obedient type, but rather one who is brash and strong and decidedly unladylike. This production leans into the weird and wackiness, with a fantastic cast (that's mostly new-to-me) singing and dancing and performing their hearts out. Once Upon a Mattress continues at the Hanifl Performing Arts Center in White Bear Lake weekends through May 17.

"Pride and Prejudice" at Theatre in the Round

Perhaps best known for her modern, feminist, and funny Jane Austen adaptations, Kate Hamill was the most produced playwright in America last season. For some reason, we can't get enough of strong and relatable female heroines right now. Theatre in the Round is continuing this trend with the first show of their 74th season, Pride and Prejudice, everyone's favorite Jane Austen story by everyone's Jane Austen interpreter. Park Square Theatre produced the regional premiere of this play in 2019, and while I appreciated the fun and fresh look at the story, I felt it went a bit too far into over-the-top slapsticky territory for me. But I'm pleased to report that this production strikes just the perfect balance between comedy, modernity, and the traditional story we all love. So while I stated that I loved about 75% of Park Square's version, I love 100% of this show. It's so much fun, with a huge and talented cast portraying the endearing Bennet sisters and their charming beaux, and a really great use of music and movement, well staged in the unique in-the-round space. Pride and Prejudice continues for two more weekends, but this beloved story is already selling out shows so don't wait too long to get your tickets!