Ashley Harrington (left) plays Queen Aggravain in the Churchville-Chili production of "Once Upon a Mattress." Her mother, Laurel, played the same part at C-C in 1982. Submitted photo.


Mother-daughter play their parts

On March 24, 1982, Churchville-Chili High School opened its production of "Once Upon a Mattress." 17-year old coloratura soprano, Laurel Harrington (nee Townley), sang brilliantly in the role of Queen Aggravain. On March 24, 2006, Churchville-Chili High School will open its production of "Once Upon a Mattress" with 17-year-old Ashley Harrington, a dramatic soprano, in the role of the Queen. Like mother, like daughter. This time, as her daughter prepares her part, Laurel is performing the role of head costumer for the production.

"Once Upon a Mattress" (music by Mary Rogers, lyrics by Marshall Barer, book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller and Marshall Barer) is a musical retelling of the fairy tale "The Princess and the Pea" with plenty of poetic and comic license taken. The production is performed by 42 senior high students, who are being guided by Director Steve Cortese, Musical Director Edie Rice, and Choreographer Robin Wunsch. Parent volunteers are helping to ensure that this production runs smoothly and successfully.

"Once Upon a Mattress" will be performed Friday, March 24 and Saturday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, March 26 at 2 p.m. Tickets will be $6 and will be available in the main office of the high school during the first week of March. Call 293-4540, ext. 2810, after March 6 for information.

March 5, 2006