The Little Mermaid

Curtain Call Productions made a welcome return to the Lyceum stage with their production of ‘The Little Mermaid’, directed by Gail Montague, assisted by Ben Mather-Dodd. What perfect timing to produce this show, with the imminent release of the new Disney live action version of ‘The Little Mermaid’. The set was relatively simple. A big LED screen covered the back wall, with some great visuals, which really brought the audience in to the Disney cartoon world. Additional set was brought on when required (Ursula’s lair, Ariel’s shrine, Triton’s throne). A particular highlight was the end of Act 1, where Ariel swims to the surface with her tail changing to legs – it was magical! It was a brave choice having some of the cast wear Heelys, especially on the Lyceum stage, but all those wearing them manoeuvred round the stage well. The costumes were very good throughout, and to hear that Gail had been busy making a lot of the costumes is impressive. A range of colours and textures really brought the sea creatures to life.

Malcolm Forbes-Peckham was musical director for ‘The Little Mermaid’. Malcolm led the orchestra well, bringing the Disney magic to life, with familiar songs from the film and new songs written for the stage. The vocals from the cast were all very good too.

Gail Montague also choreographed the show, assisted by Donna Bainbridge, with additional choreography from Joel Montague. The routines were varied and executed well by the cast. ‘Under the Sea’ was colourful and vibrant, ‘Positoovity’ was a great tap routine, and ‘One Step Closer’ was beautifully danced by Libby and Jake.

Lighting and sound were executed well in the performance. The balance between orchestra and cast was just right – everything could be heard. The coloured lighting in ‘Under the Sea’ created a party atmosphere, as did the bubbles cascading down – a lovely touch.

Libby Robinson was perfect casting as Ariel. She captured the innocence and wonderment of Ariel well. With a great voice, Libby’s ‘Part of Your World’ was beautifully performed. Libby was also very physically expressive, which is needed in the second act when Ariel has lost her voice.

Jake Bloem was the perfect Disney prince as Prince Eric. Amazing vocals, great dancing and super acting. Jake had a great relationship with Libby, which was totally believable.

Nesah Gonzales was a very good Sebastian. The audience loved Nesah, who totally embodied the role of Sebastian. The crab-like movements, a cracking voice and some great comedic timing – this was a standout performance.

Natalie Kent seemed to relish the role of the villainous Ursula. Natalie commanded the stage as soon as she entered. The costuming of Ursula was great! Her vocal in ‘Poor Unfortunate Souls’ was amazing and seemed totally effortless. A great performance.

Mike Bate played King Triton. Mike has a good singing voice, but felt underwhelmed by his performance. It would have been great to have seen a more authoritative figure, which would have had a greater impact when Triton destroys Ariel’s shrine, giving Ariel more of a purpose to seek out Ursula.

Chris Barker and Luke Billington worked well together as Flotsam and Jetsam respectively. The use of puppetry to bring the villainous sidekicks to life was inventive and well done by both.

Luke Dipple as Scuttle was a particular favourite. He brought a great energy to the role and was very funny. Luke’s number in Act 2, ‘Positoovity’, was particular highlight and he led the ensemble of Gulls well. An excellent performance.

Gareth Butler provided good support as Grimsby. With a heightened accent, Gareth embodied the loyal Grimsby well. He had a nice rapport with Jake’s Prince Eric.

Ava Gordon-Butler brought the cute factor to the performance as Flounder. She held her own performing with the adult cast and has a nice voice. Be careful not to rush your dialogue.

Sam Dale brought us some more comedy as Chef Louis. He had a great energy about him during ‘Les Poissons’.

The Mersisters (Tandie Stahl, Chloe Ravenscroft, Tash Langley, Jade Taylor, Frankie Birch and Jessica Davidson) were great. Each brought their own individual character to life, and the numbers that they led, ‘Daughters of Triton’ and ‘She’s in Love’, allowed them to display some excellent vocals.

The ensemble did well throughout playing a variety of parts, from sea creatures to gulls to maids and chefs. The ensemble was well drilled in what they were doing, and the ensemble numbers were really well done.

Overall, this was a great production, with some great performances, excellent ensemble numbers and a magical ending to Act 1.

Thank you to Curtain Call Productions for their warm welcome and kind hospitality. All the best for your next production.

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