Q&A with the Artists Behind The Princess and the Pea

The Princess and the Pea is more than a story about insomnia—it’s a fairytale that follows a princess who, disheveled from a rainstorm, must prove herself to her faithful servants. A nimble twist on Hans Cristian Andersen’s timeless tale, this production turns the page with mattress-springing acrobatics and physical comedy! Learn more about the performers creating the comedy in The Princess and the Pea.

What do you do if you have trouble falling asleep?

Danielle Bird (Yellow Servant)

I like to listen to some relaxing music or crystal gong bath sounds if I struggle to fall asleep. Luckily, I’ve never found a pea in my bed!

Nathan Johnston (Green Servant)

I like to listen to an audiobook with a really calming voice.

Robert Penny (Blue Servant)

Quick zoomies! To get rid of the extra energy, a few jumping jacks usually does the trick!

What is your favorite acrobatic moment in the show?

Danielle Bird (Yellow Servant)

My favorite acrobatic moment is when Nathan lifts me into a spinning assisted cartwheel above his head. I still have no idea how it happens but it looks sooooooo cool.

Rhiannon Skerritt (Purple Princess)

My favorite would have to be when I somersault out of our circus basket toss. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, but really, it’s just so fun to do!

Nathan Johnston (Green Servant)

My favorite acrobatic moment is when we throw the princess up in the air and she does a front flip and we catch her.

What is your favorite fairy tale? Why?

Robert Penny (Blue Servant)

I don’t have a favorite fairy tale, but I do have a favorite fable! It’s The Tortoise and the Hare. The story helps show that hard work and perseverance pay off even if it’s at your own pace, and that being sure of your own ability (but not overconfident) will secure success.

Rhiannonn Skerritt (Purple Princess)

If Peter Pan counts, then it’s definitely that! I’ve dreamt about flying ever since I was a child, and I feel performing in shows like The Princess and the Pea is the closest I’ll ever get. We should all aim for that childlike sense of spontaneity and dreamlike wonder.

Danielle Bird (Yellow Servant)

My favorite fairy tale is Hansel and Gretel. I also love that we have a whole new version of The Princess and the Pea brilliantly adapted for a modern audience. So this one is my new fav!

For more behind the scenes content from The Princess and the Pea, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.