March 19–April 16
Enter the fairy tale Kingdom of Yourroom as a whimsical bedtime story unfolds complete with sword fights, dragons and lasagna. The Princess King is this year's senior project for DeSales University's theater majors, and they're extremely amped to offer a colorful, comedic show to entertain audiences of any age.
The King of Yourroom is ready to retire, but rather than pass the crown to his daughter, Genevieve, and her insufficient love interest Henry (a mere cook), he's bound to find a new suitor with a contest for all the neighboring kingdoms' eligible bachelors. Genevieve masquerades as a contestant to prove that she can do just as well as any man and take the crown.
The interplay of light and set design will help transform the stage from the frame play of a bedtime story being read to young Lucille to the fantasy kingdom arising amid the furniture of her room. “We took a lot of inspiration from kids' toys,” says director Brooke Harrsch, “like Legos, blocks and Lincoln Logs, to mesh the world of the bedroom into this playful kingdom of Lucille's imagination.”
The various princes coming to vie for Princess Genevieve's hand add their own brands of wackiness to the cast—each prince comes with unique colors, quirks and even a theme song to set him apart. “It's a strong feminist play that resonates with all of us,” Harrsch says, “and all the unique personalities give us a lot to work with.”
Harrsch and her team embody the message of the play: Trust your imagination and you'll be surprised what's possible. “My peers know so much and are so eager,” she says. “I couldn't ask for a better group of people.”
Can Genevieve and Henry overcome the challenges her father has set? Grab the kids in your life and get ready for a good laugh.
Adults: $12; Children: $11 | Tues., Thurs. & Sat.: 10 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. | The Labuda Center for the Performing Arts | Schubert Theatre | 2755 Station Ave., Center Valley | 610.282.3192 | tickets.desales.edu
