Weather Postpones PCHS Performances

Paden City High School Thespian Troupe #4892’s production of “Once Upon A Mattress” met with rave reviews after their opening night, Friday. Unfortunately the next two nights were postponed because of the snowy weather. They were scheduled to put on a second performance Tuesday and will conclude with a 2:30 p.m. curtain time Sunday, at the Lincoln Theater, New Martinsville. (Photo by Lewie Osborne)
“Once Upon A Cancellation” might have been a better name for Paden City High School’s theater production.
Thespian Troupe #4892’s production of “Once Upon A Mattress” met with two postponements this past weekend thanks to the cold and snowy weather. The play was set for three performances: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. While opening night went as scheduled, Saturday and Sunday’s performances had to be cancelled.
“We just felt it was so bad, weather wise, that we were afraid that nobody would show up,” said Director Dan Henthorn.
But never fear, the show will go on! They rescheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 28, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 2, at 2:30 p.m. “I feel it was better that we were able to reschedule,” said Henthorn.
“I’m sad we had to move the dates, but I know we can fill the historic Lincoln!” said Adam Croasmun, a senior and president of Troupe #4892, who plays the role of Prince Dauntless.
Filling the theater is not only a desire, but a need as the show was costly to prepare.
“If we weren’t able to reschedule it would be a financial hardship because we have a few thousand dollars invested in this,” said Henthorn.
PCHS Principal Jay Salva shares that desire to see a full theater. “I’m just hoping that when we actually have it, that people will come. I’m a little nervous about it. This weather hasn’t been cooperating with us.”
The final decision to cancel the shows does fall to the Wetzel County Superintendent of Schools, Dennis Albright.
“I think the first night went better than expected and the people will really miss out if they don’t get to see these talented kids do this show,” said Henthorn. “They have worked so hard.”
Perhaps the work was hard, but Croasmun said it has also been fun. “It’s been a blast working on this show. The reactions from the crowd opening night were so flattering,” said Croasmun.
“It is a fabulous show,” echoed Salva.
A night at the theater may be just the thing for locals with cabin fever. “If you want to warm up with laughter, you should come out. This is your opportunity,” encouraged Henthorn.
Those who had pre-purchased a ticket for the cancelled Saturday or Sunday show can use it at any of the rescheduled performances. “Don’t worry about exchanging the ticket, just show up,” said Henthorn.
It wasn’t just the acting that got rave reviews. The set and costumes are superb.
Henthorn said the troupe received a grant from ArtsLink and used the funds to purchase beautiful period costumes. They will be donating those back to ArtsLink. That way they will be in the community if anyone else wants to use them for any of those types of shows.
Theater at PCHS is certainly experiencing a surge of support. Henthorn said the first year he headed the program he had six students involved. Last year there were 18 and this year over 20 students are involved in the production. In fact, there are even students from Valley and Magnolia high schools that are part of the play.
The final show will be presented Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Lincoln Theater in New Martinsville. Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for ages 10 and under. For information about tickets, or any questions about the show, call 304-771-3777.
Accompanist is Bruce Ensinger. The cast has been learning show music with the direction of Sean Maxwell. Techies are led by technical adviser Di Bonyak, and costumes are designed and made by Carolyn Hizer and Kay Klug.
“Once Upon A Mattress” features returning cast and crew members from last year’s production of You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown, including: Haley Hizer, Adam Croasmun, Morgan Goddard, Logan Crawford, Beth Yaron, Angel Moore, Meleaha Bland, JR Powell, Vicky Yaron, and Kalob Byers, along with many talented new faces including: Kobe Wade, Paige Leonard, Kayla Hizer, Travis Leonard, Kris Byers, Levi Goddard, Lexy Glover, Kaitlyn Duke, Alli Suter, Hannah Loy, Olivia Bolen, Shelby Schulteis, and Chelsea Dennis.