A severe thunderstorm may have postponed opening night, but Marian University’s Spring musical, Once Upon a Mattress, returned stronger than ever, proving that not even the weather could stop the show from going on.
Originally set to debut Thursday, March 3, the production was delayed by one day after a storm swept through Indianapolis. The cast and crew bounced back Friday night with a spirited performance that drew a full house and ended in a standing ovation.
For some cast members, the road to opening night came with personal challenges. Ayanna, who played the Wizard, said she initially felt disconnected during rehearsals—but found community as the show came together.
“At first, I felt a little checked out,” said Ayanna Walsh
. “But once I started talking to people like Cassie and Blessing, and spent more time in the dressing room, I felt a lot more welcomed. We had a fun show. Everyone was really talented, and we all worked together. It was just fun.”
Filled with humor, music, and fairytale charm, the performance offered audiences a whimsical escape—and showcased the resilience and dedication of Marian’s theater department.
Even with storms overhead, Once Upon a Mattress reminded the Marian community of a timeless truth: the show must—and will—go on.