A new adaptation of the Princess and the Pea – with a touch of Cayman thrown in – is set to take the stage later this month.
Performed by the Cayman Drama Society (CDS), the beloved Hans Christian Andersen fairytale runs for three weekends at Prospect Playhouse from 20 September.
Director Alena Valiaeva, who also adapted and choreographed the show and designed the set, said the characters wear period clothes but the story is set in the present day “in a fantasy castle somewhere in Grand Cayman”.
“There are many local references, including Seven Mile Beach and the drama society itself,” she added.
The production features an eclectic mix of music, from lullabies to jazz and rap, singing, dance numbers, audience interaction and lots of humour.
Valiaeva, who is an actor and dancer originally from Russia, said she’s written it with both children and adults in mind.
“I think different ages will appreciate it in different ways,” she explained.
Starring as the Princess, whose royal lineage is tested by whether she can feel a pea placed under several mattresses, is Hayley Reid.
The Prince will be played by John-Michael Kerford, the Queen by Zoe Justice, the King by Michael McLaughlin, and the Narrator Michaela Adams.
Mike Bishop is producing, while the crew includes Susie Robinson, Simon Amos, Olga Gajraj, Victoria Sleutz, Peter Pasold and Hywel Jones.
While there are still a few rehearsals left, Valiaeva said the play is already in a great place.
“I was watching it yesterday and I’m really happy with how it’s coming together, it’s going to be fantastic,” she said.
Valiaeva added that she is “so grateful” to have found CDS after moving to the Cayman Islands.
“When we first moved here for my partner’s job I was flying back and forth to rehearsals in New York, but then I found the drama society and it has everything I need. I am so happy to be part of the theatre. It’s a wonderful community.
“I also love the Cayman Islands, so am dedicating this play to Cayman as a thank you.”
Two daytime performances will be held on 20 and 21 September and 4 and 5 October, while one daytime performance will be held on 28 September.
Exact times and ticket booking information are available on CDS’s website.
