The Children’s Theatre Association of San Francisco (CTA)
The Children’s Theatre Association of San Francisco was established in 1934 as an all volunteer, non-profit women’s organization dedicated to providing live musical theatre for school children in the San Francisco Bay Area, particularly for those who might not otherwise experience it.
Coming in 2026!
Once Upon a Mattress:
Youth Edition
A hilarious retelling of “The Princess and the Pea”
“Once Upon a Mattress” is a musical comedy retelling of “The Princess and the Pea”, set in a kingdom where no one can marry until Prince Dauntless finds a bride. The Youth Edition version, suitable for elementary school children, centers on all of the members of the King’s court coming together to try and find Prince Dauntless a bride, while Queen Aggravain keeps rejecting potential brides with impossible tests. When Princess Winifred the Woebegone arrives, her unconventional behavior and strength of character challenge the Queen’s standards, leading to a final, hilarious test involving mattresses and a pea. Children will enjoy the dancing and singing, and meeting the members of the court who are all trying to find the right partner for the Prince, with a blend of classic fairy tale elements and lots of funny twists!
Show Dates: January 24-February 28, 2026
Tickets go on sale September 1, 2025
Watch the Childrens Theatre Association SF Featured on California Live!
Weekend Shows
Tickets for 2026 Performances will go on sale in September 2025
School Shows
Tickets for 2026 Performances will be available for reservation in September 2025