Appalachian State Stages 'Once Upon a Mattress' Musical

Student-led production of classic fairytale comes to Boone stage.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:51pm

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An abstract, minimalist illustration using bold, jagged shapes in red, white, and black to conceptually represent the fairy tale characters and themes of the 'Once Upon a Mattress' musical without any literal depictions.A student-led musical production of the classic fairy tale 'Once Upon a Mattress' brings the Appalachian and Boone communities together around the performing arts.Boone Today

The Appalachian State University Department of Theatre and Dance and The Hayes School of Music are presenting a production of the musical 'Once Upon a Mattress,' which is based on the classic fairy tale 'The Princess and the Pea' by Hans Christian Andersen. The show is being performed by Appalachian State students for the local Boone, North Carolina community.

Why it matters

This student-led theatrical production brings the Appalachian State and Boone communities together around a beloved fairy tale story, showcasing the talent and creativity of the university's performing arts programs while also providing affordable, accessible entertainment for local residents.

The details

The musical 'Once Upon a Mattress' is a comedic retelling of the classic 'Princess and the Pea' story, with music by Mary Rodgers and lyrics by Marshall Barer. The Appalachian State production features a cast and crew entirely made up of students from the Department of Theatre and Dance and The Hayes School of Music.

  • The show runs from April 10-14, 2026.

The players

Appalachian State University Department of Theatre and Dance

The academic department at Appalachian State University that is producing the 'Once Upon a Mattress' musical.

The Hayes School of Music

The music school at Appalachian State University that is collaborating on the production.

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What they’re saying

“This student-led production of 'Once Upon a Mattress' is a wonderful way for the Appalachian and Boone communities to come together around the arts.”

— Dr. Nora Hanke, Chair, Department of Theatre and Dance

What’s next

Tickets for the 'Once Upon a Mattress' production are on sale now through the Appalachian State box office.

The takeaway

By staging a classic fairy tale musical with an all-student cast and crew, Appalachian State is providing valuable performance experience for its arts students while also offering affordable, family-friendly entertainment that brings the local Boone community together.