The Little Mermaid

I have not seen a show at Pendle Hippodrome Theatre for many years, so it was a pleasure to return when asked to review The Little Mermaid, the latest show by Pendle Hippodrome Youth Theatre. We instantly felt an underwater ambience as we sat facing an open stage with deep sea projections, creating the illusion of extra depth on the stage. Netting and sea creatures adorned the stage front, either side of the orchestra, with a small rock situated for use in the opening scene. As the lights dimmed in the auditorium, the orchestra began to play, two lights set onstage projected a swirling bubble effect on the ceiling above the audience, with forward facing lights along the front of the stage and smoke blowing around, the scene was set very effectively.

Director, Matt Whatley, making his directorial debut, created an authentic under the sea atmosphere, using lighting effects and a variety of projections. The use of trucks dressed as rocks and coral reefs, moved, and turned effectively as the scenes changed. Matt gave us a lively, bright ocean for Ariel and her family, a dark, almost oppressive subterranean lair for Ursula, a ships deck, and open spaces for Prince Eric. The Stage Manager, Penelope Hatfield and Set Co-ordinator, Paul Thompson, had organised their crew into a slick team that worked hard throughout the show but remained unobtrusive.

The Musical Director, Lisa Manley and her orchestra sounded great. Lisa had obviously rehearsed the orchestra and actors well, resulting in outstanding solo performances and harmonious chorus numbers. Choreographer, Sam Frankland, created fun, energetic dance routines that fit well with the songs and looked visually stunning, I enjoyed Under the sea, it was a full-on energetic routine. Using the coral reef/rocks on stage to dance upon, the chorus of sea creatures looked very much like a busy coral reef, I thought it looked enchanting. The use of bubbles blowing out from the ceiling, floating down onto the audience during the routine was a lovely touch, and well received by the audience. A terrific addition to an already fabulous looking scene. Costumes provided by the wardrobe team, Jane Barritt, Gillian Mason, and Marilyn Walton, looked striking, colourful and in keeping with the theme of the show whilst the makeup by Anna McKeown and wigs by Sophie Greenwood added the finishing touches, the whole cast looked fantastic.

The lighting, operated by Adam Horsfield, was highly effective, adding significantly to the ambience. I particularly liked the Ursula scenes, evocatively lit, and giving off a sinister vibe.

Sound, provided by Marcus Whittaker was clear, no mic feedback or noticeable dropouts, although I did wonder if the mic used by Prince Eric had an issue on the night I visited as I could not hear his solo in its entirety. There were some impressive sound effects during the storm and the scene where Ursula cast her wicked spell.

Jessica Austin played Ariel, a mermaid who wants to explore the world above the ocean. Jessica gave us a strong performance. A confident singer with a lovely voice, good stage presence, and a natural effervescence. Her accent and diction were clear during both dialogue and songs. Playing a voiceless role for a portion of the show highlighted Jessica’s acting ability. Relying on only facial expressions and hand gestures to ‘talk,’ Jessica was animated and amusing. Her costume, wig and makeup looked great under the stage lights.

Freddie McLoughlin played Prince Eric. Freddie gave a compelling performance, his Princely stance dominating the stage. He looked regal in his costume and makeup. Freddie sang from the heart and his dialogue was assertive.

Ruby Haynes played Flounder. Ruby was impressive to watch, with clear, assured dialogue and a ton of energy as she moved around the stage. Her song with the Mersisters, ‘She’s in Love’ was humorous and lively. I thought her costume and makeup looked excellent. A super performance from Ruby.

The role of Grimsby was played by Jacob Tierney. Getting increasingly frustrated by Prince Eric, Jacob played his role perfectly. He gave a solid performance, often hobbling onstage to chastise the prince, growing increasingly agitated as the show progressed. Strong character acting and a good deal of well delivered humour from Jacob.

Jessica Thornber played the seagull Scuttle. I did like Jessica’s tap-dancing routine, Jessica and her fellow gulls looked great in this scene. Jessica delivered her lines clearly and her song was humorous and delivered with gusto.

Louis Peel played Sebastian. Louis was comical, dynamic, and lively. He had some strong songs, and his accent was good. This was a physical role, requiring Louis to run around, jump over and crawl under things, his energy was exceptional as he scuttled across the stage (I particularly liked his hat with crab eyes attached).

Ursula, the villainous sea witch, was played by Phoebe Whitaker. Phoebe really looked the part, with an amazing tentacle costume and striking hair and makeup. She delivered a formidable Ursula character with her impressive acting and strong, clear singing voice, I particularly liked Phoebe’s song “Poor Unfortunate Souls.” Phoebe really was a revelation on the night and delivered an outstanding performance.

The minions of Ursula, Flotsam and Jetsam, were played by Isla Rigby and Kasie Thompson respectively. I thought their electric eel costumes, makeup, and wigs looked fabulous. They moved in unison as they slinked around the stage and their singing sounded wonderful.

Chef Louis was played by Eden Barritt. This was a comedic, physical role, requiring Eden to run around the stage whilst singing her song. A funny, well-choreographed chase scene, which Eden took in her stride whilst maintaining a French accent.

Thomas Homer played King Triton. Thomas cut an imposing figure in his costume complete with wig and beard. His characterisation of Triton was larger than life, tempestuous and all powerful within his domain. His dialogue was clear, and his song well delivered.

Triton had seven daughters including Ariel and the Mersisters. The Mersisters often came onto stage together, and they always looked amazing, when they sang in unison the harmony was lovely.

I would love to mention everyone individually but there were so many on stage it is not possible. The cast and crew worked hard to produce a memorable show, the audience loved the many effects and the colourful, harmonious chorus numbers. It was a vibrant, enjoyable production.

I would like to thank everyone for inviting me to review The Little Mermaid and especially Julie Scott for escorting me all evening. I look forward to your next production.

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