Perpich Arts High School Theater & Musical Theater Presents: “Once Upon a One More Time”

May 4, 2026

This spring, Theater and Musical Theater students at Perpich Arts High School took audiences on a glitter-filled journey of self-discovery with their production of “Once Upon a One More Time”. Blending classic fairytale characters with the music of Britney Spears, the show explored identity, empowerment, and rewriting the stories we are given.

Ruth Civettini (Musical Theater 2026), who played stepsister ‘Belinda’, said one of the highlights of the experience was collaborating closely with fellow cast member, Elsie Erickson (Musical Theater 2026) and experimenting creatively during rehearsals. Erickson played the stepsister ‘Betany’.

L to R: Elsie Erickson (Musical Theater 2026), Lauren Cleary (Musical Theater 2026), and Ruth Civettini (Musical Theater 2026) make up the evil step family

“We just kept finding new things that worked for the character,” Civettini said. “I think it’s really cool because we got to experiment a lot with our characters because they’re very outgoing and over the top.”

Civettini also reflected on the sense of community that grew throughout the production process. “As a team, we all kind of grew and got stronger by the end,” she said. “I’ve learned how to collaborate with my classmates and how to create group ensemble work versus solo work.”

Natalie Campbell (Musical Theater 2026), who carried much of the show as ‘Cinderella’, described the production as both demanding and rewarding.

“In Act One, you’re just go, go, go,” Campbell said. “It definitely takes a toll on your mind and body, but it was really fun and really important.”

Gwyn Devillers (Musical Theater 2026) as Fairy Godmother (OFG) and Natalie Campbell (Musical Theater 2026) as Cinderella

Campbell said the experience also helped her build confidence as a performer. “You can’t just hold it in,” she said about the show’s challenging vocals. “You just gotta let it go. Whatever it sounds like is what it sounds like.”

Principal Rebecca Bullen praised the production for its emotional depth and message of empowerment. “The students are doing more than performing; they are exploring identity, growth, and possibility,” Bullen said. “This is arts education: the process of discovering voice, identity, and connection through creativity.”

With energetic performances, heartfelt storytelling, and unforgettable pop anthems, “Once Upon a One More Time” left audiences with a powerful reminder that every voice, and every story, matters.

Congratulations to all the artists and to their instructors for a great performance!

See the show’s playbill here.