Quirky, charming, and delightfully corny are the three descriptions I’d use in describing “Once Upon A Mattress.” I’m not one who grew up on the tale of “The Princess and The Pea” even though I got the gist of it from outside sources in my life. And while the book is chock full of silly little golden-age-style jokes (though it appears Amy Sherman-Palladino of “Mrs. Maisel” fame has done a superb job at making things feel much more modern and appropriate for today) and the songs while cutesy and whimsical may not leave you humming as you leave the theatre, it’s the direction of Lear deBessonet and the fantastically hysterical cast that’s been assembled that wins the day here! Every pratfall, spit take, tumble, split, charade, bed jump, wild animal reveal, and grand entrance and exit is precisely measured and expertly nuanced to make even the biggest curmudgeon keel over with laughter, and no matter how many times a comedic bit repeats, you never find yourself getting bored because each repeat is even more articulated and balanced with delightful perfection. deBessonet has found brilliant means at making this slightly-lesser-known golden age musical feel like it truly belongs with the contemporary crowd, and that truly is something to celebrate. The additions of Lorin Latarro’s sweet, slick, and simple choreography and rather lush and brassy onstage orchestra make the onstage mayhem even more of a ball to bear witness to. And let’s also kiss up the success of this production to the musical comedy queen that is Sutton Foster. Foster is as equally funny as the OG Fred herself, Carol Burnett, maybe even more (that’s not to offend a comedic legend). Foster is so unabashedly quick-witted, daring, and unapologetic in her comedic chops and her performance in general, and it’s seasoned even more with her splendid vocals and powerhouse belt, and her dancing that appears to pay tribute to the show that put her on the map. In my book, she’s a shoe-in for Tony season. Just as funny as her is her adorably awkward-in-performance costar Michael Urie. Urie is such a perfect little mama's boy to begin, but as soon as he's met his match, that journey from boy to man is both amusing and impressive to behold. His chemistry with Foster is THE chemistry and couple goals you'd want in any relationship (THAT is how perfect this duo works). And of course you've got a fantastic supporting cast of veteran comedics that all stand out in their own right and add even more variety and flavor to this simple yet splendid production. For a swift 2.25 hours, you'll be thoroughly entertained through and through during your time at the Hudson. "Once Upon A Mattress" is quite the triumph of the season thus far, and I wish nothing but a successful and well-deserved Broadway run!
