Once Upon a Mattress

Venue

Hudson Theatre
139-141 West 44 Street
New York, NY 10036

Group Minimum

10 or more tickets

Duration

Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes including a 15 minute intermission

Audience

Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theatre.

First Performance

7/31/2024

On Sale Through

11/30/2024

Once Upon a Mattress is a delightful musical comedy that offers a whimsical twist on the classic fairy tale ‘The Princess and the Pea.’ The show first premiered off-Broadway in 1959 and quickly gained popularity, moving to Broadway later that same year. The story was written by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller, and Marshall Barer, with music by Mary Rodgers and lyrics by Marshall Barer.

If you’re considering buying Once Upon a Mattress Broadway tickets in New York, opt for the visitNYC platform. Also, review this guide beforehand.

Address

139, West 44th Street, New York, New York, 10036

Get Directions
Phone

Getting There

For best availability, consider requesting the front mezzanine. Many Broadway theatres are smaller than you might expect, so sitting in the mezzanine can provide a great view and increase your chances of getting the show and date you want.

Address

139, West 44th Street, New York, New York, 10036

Get Directions

Story Overview

The story of Once Upon a Mattress show in New York starts in a fictional kingdom ruled by Queen Aggravain, a domineering and controlling figure. The Queen has placed a strict decree on the kingdom: no one can marry until her son, Prince Dauntless, finds a suitable bride. However, the Queen is intent on keeping her son single and has created a series of nearly impossible tests that any potential bride must pass.

The plot thickens when Princess Winnifred arrives. Unlike the delicate princesses who have previously failed the Queen’s tests, Winnifred is spirited, outspoken, and far from the typical royal. She comes from a distant swamp and is determined to marry Prince Dauntless. Despite her unconventional background and lack of refinement, Winnifred quickly wins the heart of the Prince.

Determined to thwart Winnifred’s chances, Queen Aggravain comes up with her most difficult test yet: a sensitivity test involving a pea. She places a single pea beneath twenty mattresses and declares that only a true princess would be sensitive enough to feel the discomfort and lose sleep.

In a surprising turn of events, Winnifred passes the test. She has unknowingly felt the pea and thus proves herself to be a true princess. This revelation leads Prince Dauntless to finally stand up to his mother, breaking the Queen’s control over him and the kingdom.

In the end, the curse that had kept King Sextimus silent is lifted, allowing him to speak again. The story concludes with the marriage of Prince Dauntless and Princess Winnifred, and the entire kingdom celebrates as others are also free to marry.

Cast Information

The current production of Once Upon a Mattress shows today in NYC at the Hudson Theatre features a stellar cast. Here’s a list.

  • Sutton Foster as Princess Winnifred
  • Michael Urie as Prince Dauntless
  • Ana Gasteyer as Queen Aggravain
  • Will Chase as Prince Harry
  • David Patrick Kelly as King Sextimus the Silent
  • Nikki Renée Daniels as Lady Larken
  • Daniel Breaker as The Jester
  • Brooks Ashmanskas as The Wizard​

Venue Details

The Hudson Theatre, one of Broadway’s oldest venues, opened in 1903 and is located on West 44th Street in Manhattan. Known for its rich history, the theater has hosted a variety of productions, including plays, musicals, and special events. After a major restoration in 2017, it now features modern amenities while preserving its historic charm, making it a premier location for Broadway performances​ like Once Upon a Mattress in New York.

Reviews

Once Upon a Mattress show in New York has generally received positive reviews for its humor, charm, and the performances of its leading actors. The musical is praised for its clever adaptation of the classic fairy tale ‘The Princess and the Pea,’ with reviewers often highlighting its lighthearted nature. Sutton Foster’s portrayal of Princess Winnifred has been lauded as energetic, bringing a fresh take to the role. Critics have noted her comedic timing and ability to carry the show with her vibrant personality.

Michael Urie and Ana Gasteyer have also received praise for their performances as Prince Dauntless and Queen Aggravain, respectively, adding depth and humor to their characters.

The direction by Lear deBessonet has been well-received, with reviewers appreciating her ability to balance the show’s humor with its underlying themes of love and determination.

The set design, costumes, and overall production quality have been described as visually appealing and effective in creating a whimsical atmosphere that complements the story.

Music

The musical score of Once Upon a Mattress Broadway in theater in NYC was composed by Mary Rodgers, with lyrics by Marshall Barer. The songs in this score range from humorous to romantic, reflecting the whimsical and comedic nature of the story. Below is a list of the songs,

  • “Overture”— An instrumental introduction that sets the tone for the musical.
  • “Many Moons Ago” — A song where the Minstrel narrates the backstory of the kingdom and the Queen’s decree.
  • “An Opening for a Princess”— Prince Dauntless and the knights discuss the search for a suitable princess.
  • “In a Little While”— A romantic duet between Lady Larken and Sir Harry, expressing their hope for the future.
  • “Shy”— Princess Winnifred’s humorous and ironic declaration that she is not shy.
  • “The Minstrel, the Jester and I” — The Jester and the Minstrel sing about their shared experiences and dreams.
  • “Sensitivity” — Queen Aggravain plans to use a sensitivity test to eliminate Princess Winnifred.
  • “The Swamps of Home”— Princess Winnifred nostalgically sings about her home in the swamp.
  • “Normandy”— Sir Harry sings about a peaceful and beautiful place he dreams of escaping to with Lady Larken.
  • “Song of Love”— A comedic ensemble number where everyone expresses their feelings about love and marriage.
  • “Happily Ever After”— Princess Winnifred, feeling discouraged, questions whether fairy-tale endings are real.
  • “Man to Man Talk”— King Sextimus and Prince Dauntless share a father-son talk through gestures, as the King is mute.
  • “Very Soft Shoes” — The Jester recalls his father’s soft shoe dance and how it influences him.
  • “Yesterday I Loved You”— A reprise where Lady Larken and Sir Harry reconcile and reaffirm their love.
  • “Nightmare” — A dream sequence where characters reveal their anxieties and fears.
  • “Finale”— The cast rejoices as Prince Dauntless and Princess Winnifred marry, and the curse on the kingdom is broken.

Awards

Once Upon a Mattress in NYC has had a successful run in various productions and has received multiple nominations over the years. Here’s a list of notable nominations.

Tony Awards (1960)

  • Best Musical — Nominated
  • Best Leading Actress in a Musical (Carol Burnett) — Nominated
  • Best Featured Actor in a Musical (Jack Gilford) — Nominated
  • Best Costume Design (Alvin Colt)  — Nominated

Run Length and Schedule

The current production of Once Upon a Mattress at the Hudson Theatre in New York is scheduled to run from July 31, 2024, with previews, officially opening on August 12, 2024. The musical is set for a limited engagement, concluding on November 30, 2024. The Once Upon a Mattress show in New York typically runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an intermission.

Weekly Schedule

  • Tuesday: 7:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 2:00 PM (matinee) & 7:00 PM
  • Thursday:7:00 PM
  • Friday:7:00 PM
  • Saturday: 2:00 PM (matinee) & 7:00 PM
  • Sunday: 3:00 PM

Food and Beverage Options

The Hudson Theatre offers a selection of snacks, including candy, popcorn, and soft drinks. There is also a bar serving wine, beer, and mixed drinks. The options are typically limited compared to nearby restaurants, so it’s a good idea to grab a meal before arriving. The Hudson Theatre is surrounded by several cuisine options, including cafes, bakeries, Halal food spots, Italian restaurants, and American comfort food spots.

VisitNYC logo, showcasing 5 different colors: black, orange, yellow, green, and olive green, with text VisitNYC

Get Your Hands on Once Upon a Mattress Tickets in New York

Don’t miss your chance to experience the enchanting and hilarious Once Upon a Mattress show in New York at the Hudson Theatre! With its delightful twist on a classic fairy tale and a stellar cast, this musical promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Book your Once Upon a Mattress tickets in NYC now through the visitNYC platform. Secure your seat and enjoy a magical evening filled with laughter and charm.

From $67.28
Book Now

See Similar

Broadway Musicals

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no strict dress code for the theater. However, most patrons dress smart-casual or business-casual. For evening performances, many choose to wear slightly more formal attire, but comfort is key, especially if you plan to dine out before or after the show.

Tickets can be purchased through the visitNYC website. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance as seats can fill up quickly.

Once Upon a Mattress is generally suitable for all ages, but it is advisable to check with the Hudson Theatre for any specific age recommendations or restrictions, particularly for very young children.

It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time of the Once Upon a Mattress show in New York to allow for ticket scanning, finding your seat, and settling in. Arriving early also gives you time to visit the restroom or purchase refreshments.

Photography and videography are generally prohibited during performances to avoid distracting the cast and other audience members. It is best to keep your phone off and stored away to comply with theater policies.