Tag Archives: The Story Collective of Cincinnati

Production: Once Upon a Mattress

Director: Susan Jung

• Audition Dates for 18+: March 1st from 2-5pm

  • Video submissions due by 5pm on March 1st if unable to attend

  • Kids age 9-12 ensemble audition will be in late April – details to come.

• Callbacks: March 3rd from 7-9pm

• Location: Summit City Church – 7950 Pfeiffer Rd. Cincinnati, Oh 45242

• Performance Dates: July 25-27th at Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy’s Lindner Theatre

• About the Show: Once Upon a Mattress is a delightful musical comedy that offers a fun, quirky twist on the classic fairy tale The Princess and the Pea. This hilarious show follows Princess Winnifred’s journey to prove herself worthy of marriage to Prince Dauntless despite the interference of his overbearing mother, Queen Aggravain. Featuring lively music, dynamic characters, a witty script, and a fun TSC twist, Once Upon a Mattress will be one you won’t want to miss.

• Audition Requirements:

  • Prepare 16-32 bars of a song in the style of the show. (An accompanist will be provided)

  • Be prepared to read sides from the script.

  • A short dance combination will be taught at auditions, so please wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear.

  • Bring a headshot and resume (if available).

  • Please bring a list of any scheduling conflicts.

• Character Breakdown:

  • Princess Winnifred (Mezzo-Soprano, A3-D5, Age: 18-35) – A bold, unconventional, and free-spirited princess from the swamp, eager to win Prince Dauntless’ hand. She is energetic, quirky, and lovable with strong comedic chops and a powerhouse belt.

  • Prince Dauntless (Baritone, A2-E4, Age: 18-35) – Sweet, naive, and overly sheltered by his domineering mother. Though he lacks confidence at first, he ultimately finds his voice. Strong comedic timing is essential.

  • Queen Aggravain (Alto, A3-F5, Age: 40+) – The loud, controlling, and manipulative queen who will do anything to keep her son from marrying. Needs a strong stage presence and comedic abilities.

  • King Sextimus the Silent (Non-Singing Role, Age: 40+) – The mute but expressive king, who communicates through gestures and facial expressions. Requires strong physical comedy skills.

  • Lady Larken (Soprano, C4-A5, Age: 18-35) – A refined and romantic lady-in-waiting who finds herself in a complicated situation with Sir Harry. Requires elegance and a beautiful soprano voice.

  • Sir Harry (Baritone, C3-G4, Age: 18-35) – A chivalrous and prideful knight determined to marry Lady Larken, though he sometimes acts impulsively. Strong singer and actor.

  • Minstrel (Tenor, D3-A4, Age: 18-45) – The charming and witty narrator of the story. Needs a strong voice, charisma, and comedic timing.

  • Jester (Tenor, D3-A4, Age: 18-45) – The quick-footed and clever entertainer of the kingdom. Requires strong movement/dance abilities and a vibrant personality.

  • Wizard (Baritone, C3-F4, Age: 40+) – The queen’s comically bumbling sidekick and court magician. Requires strong comedic timing.

  • Ensemble: Various characters including Ladies-in-Waiting, Knights, Servants, Musicians, and other colorful members of the kingdom. Strong singers and movers of all ages are encouraged to audition.

• Rehearsal Schedule: Rehearsals will begin May 1st and will generally be held on weeknights from 7-10pm. TSC strives to work around artists’ schedules, so weekend rehearsals are a possibility. Rehearsal frequency will be approximately 1-2 a week in May,  2-3 in June and 3-4 in July until tech week. Tech rehearsals are mandatory. A detailed schedule will be provided after casting.

• How to Sign Up: To schedule an audition slot, please register here. Walk-ins will be seen as time permits. For questions, email susanj@thestorycollective.org.

*Stipends available for all roles.