Once Upon a Mattress at Dublin Coffman High School Performing Arts Center

Medieval Mayhem in Dublin Coffman's Faculty Production

A Dublin Coffman tradition continues three years after a break during the pandemic. This year’s Faculty Production, Once Upon a Mattress, brings staff back on stage for an hour of uproarious fun and raises money for Shamrock Grants at the high school. Performances will take place Thursday, November 17 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 19 at 1p.m. in the Dublin Coffman High School Performing Arts Center (6780 Coffman Road, Dublin). Tickets, $10 for adults and $5 for children 17 and under, are available by calling 614-764-5900 or in person at Dublin Coffman High School.

Based on the Princess and the Pea fairy tale, the musical features math teacher Christina Hutchinson as “rough around the edges” Princess Winifred who travels from her swamp to meet the eligible Prince Dauntless, played by math teacher David Lee. Hilarity ensues as Queen Aggravain (Language Arts teacher Tara Rogers) creates outrageous tests that seem designed to keep her son a bachelor forever. The mute King (Social Studies teacher David Woodmansee) tries to intervene on his son’s behalf but is unable to challenge his overbearing wife.

“No other high school has an event as unique and special,” shares Melanie Hitsman, producer. “Students run the lights, manage the stage and give directions to their teachers.” This will be Coffman’s tenth Faculty Production. Other years have featured musicals like ALICE!, Honk, Peter Pan, and Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

A chorus of singers represents nearly every department and position– from intervention staff to clinic nurse to administration. This is the first musical directed by Dr. Steve Kucinski, a Language Arts teacher. The faculty production raises money for Shamrock Grants, which fund teacher wishes for innovative ideas in classrooms, clubs or other projects benefiting Coffman.