Th Little Mermaid

This Disney musical is based on the 1989 film of the same name and recounts the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. It was a great choice for the school holidays, with fabulous costumes, set and props that really bought the story to life.

The technical aspects of the show were very cleverly dealt with. Triton’s throne, a ship complete with mast and Ursula’s lair were all represented in a simple but extremely effective way to minimise lengthy scene changes. There are many scene changes in this show and they were all handled very slickly, so the momentum never waned. The moving rowing boat
was especially impressive. Lighting was effective on the whole although there were some dark areas of the stage on occasion and sound dipped out occasionally but was generally good. Hair, makeup and costumes were colourful and effective, as were the luminous fishes and sea creatures. A beautifully visual show to delight the young audience.

Katy as Ariel was absolutely divine. She really looked the part, sang beautifully with the right edge of naivety and moved well with lovely flowing arms. She also danced well with the Prince and had some confident lifts.

Noah as Prince Eric had a strong stage presence and equally strong voice. He worked well with Katy to form a very believable young couple.

Sebastian played by Tim was full of character as this lovable crab and had good energy for his two big numbers ‘Under the sea’ and ‘Kiss the girl’

Ursula played by Sarah was every bit the pantomime baddie, with a lovely resonant voice and good physicality. Her two lackeys, Flotsam and Jetsam by Frankie and Daisy, sang and danced well.

Phil as King Titon played his role well with fatherly authority and great stage presence. 

Paul as Scuttle, the slightly bonkers seagull was excellent, with his made up words and gull like voice. He had a fabulous costume and performed his main song, ‘Positoovity’ with energy and good humour.  There were also some nice light-hearted moments provided by Robin as Chef Louis.

Alex always stands out in a show and his role as Flounder was no exception. Oozing charisma and stage presence, Alex high kicked, wheeled (in roller shoes) and danced his way through the role with panache. Very well done.

Grimsby was in safe hands with Alan, who had the required gravitas as this fatherly figure.

The six Mersister were wonderful and had beautiful harmonies for their opening number
‘Daughters of Triton’. They had a nice jokey rapport between them and made the most of their roles with excellent movement and singing.

Emmi-Mae, Elsie, Iris and Sam had a very important job as the ‘wave’ and were careful to get the sea in the right place at the right time. Excellent concentration.

The ensemble was full of energy and high spirits as seafarers and courtiers etc. with tight vocals and good movement

Choreography was excellent. I loved the tap routine in ‘Positoovity’ and the attention to detail throughout was very good. The Mermaids continually moved their tails and Flounder fluttered his hands whenever they were on stage to give the illusion that they were under water.

Direction was excellent with a keen eye on the visual aspects of the show as well as the characterisation. Likewise, the Musical Director had made sure the vocals were confident with beautiful harmonies and she led an excellent set of musicians to bring the score to life.

All in all this was a delightful show and a feast for the eye. There were some great performances from this talented cast, with good energy and the emphasis very much on fun. Congratulations to all involved.

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