Director says teen theatre helps kids find their place
A teen production of Once Upon a One More Time is coming to the South Shore, and its director says the show offers both familiar pop music and a meaningful story. Sally Ashton Forrest, co-director of The Company Theatre, spoke about why the musical stood out to her and how theater helps young people find confidence, creativity and belonging.
What drew you to Once Upon a One More Time as a teen production?
I honestly went into it thinking the appeal would be the Britney Spears music. I assumed the teenagers would love it because of that, but I was surprised by how strong the story is. That’s what really sold me. It’s smart, funny and deeper than I expected, and that made it exciting to work on.
How do you describe the show to someone who may not be a Britney Spears fan?
I always say it’s much more than a Britney musical. If you don’t love her music, that’s okay, because the show works as a fractured fairytale. The story is clever and unexpected, and once people hear what it’s actually about, they usually get interested very quickly.
What is the central story audiences will see on stage?
The idea is that every time a performer reads a fairytale, the characters have to come to life and reenact that story. Cinderella is the most popular, so she keeps reliving the same ending, until she starts to wonder if happily ever after is really enough. That question changes everything for her and for the other characters.
How does that question change the direction of the show?
Once Cinderella starts questioning things, the whole world of the story shifts. The princesses realize they’re all following the same script and even sharing the same prince. From there, it becomes a story about questioning the status quo, finding your voice and deciding what you actually want your life to look like.
What is your background with theater and The Company Theatre?
I grew up here. I started with The Company Theatre when I was 15, went to college for musical theater and did some professional work. Over time, I realized I was being hired more as a choreographer than a performer, and that’s where my path led. It’s been a lifetime commitment to theater and to this company in particular.
What do you enjoy most about working with teenagers?
Teenagers are sponges. They pick things up incredibly fast, and their excitement about performing is unmatched. They just want to do the next show and the next show. That energy is contagious and it keeps all of us excited to create.
What do you find most rewarding about directing young performers?
The biggest joy for me is seeing growth. Watching a kid who didn’t have confidence learn how to trust themselves and then succeed is everything. It’s not about the show anymore, it’s about the person they’re becoming through the process.
How does theater help teens who may not feel like they fit in elsewhere?
Theater kids are different. They always have been. This is a place where those differences are accepted and celebrated. They find their people here. They realize they don’t have to fit into a mold, and that gives them a real sense of belonging.
How are teen productions treated compared to adult shows?
We treat teen shows exactly like adult shows. Nothing is watered down. We’re using a professional live band, full sets, lighting and costumes. We put everything we have into these productions because the teens are capable of meeting that level, and they rise to it.
What do you hope teens take away from being part of a show like this?
I want them to trust themselves and their creativity. It’s not about being the best singer or the best dancer. It’s about being the best version of who you are and learning that your voice matters.
What do you want audiences to know before they see the show?
I think people will be pleasantly surprised. Once they hear what the story is really about, they realize it’s funny, smart and meaningful. And at the end of the day, it’s just a really fun night at the theater.
Tickets for Once Upon a One More Time are on sale now.