Village Theatre has many balls in the air right now. In addition to their production of Fiddler on the Roof, there is also a production of Disney's the Little Mermaid which just opened.
Or more accurately, The Little Mermaid Jr. It is a more condensed version of the Broadway show that was created in 2008. It is also a children's cast who are in training to become professionals.
The Little Mermaid story has been known and celebrated for over a century now. Disney of course wouldn't pass up the opportunity to portay the story and make it even better with songs and memorable new characters.
Kidstage has brought their own brand of magic to the tale with impressive costumes and voices. The tale is of a mermaid who dreams of being human. The prospect becomes even more fascinating when she falls in love with a human from afar.
Her determination to join him has consequences. Her protective father Triton is furious. And an evil sea witch sees the opportunity to get her tentacles on power by making a deal with Ariel.
Ariel is turned into a human for three days during which time her prince must fall in love with her for the humanity to remain permanent. In exchange, Ariel must give up her ability to speak and sing. Luckily her friends Sebastian, Flounder & Scuttle are around to help her.
Kidstage has been a segment of the Village Theatre for some time, yet it was only last year that they got their own building straight across from the Everett Performing Arts Center. There in their little theater, children can learn the art of acting.
The costumes of this production defy description. The songs are (of course) wonderful. The Broadway show however saw fit to add three additional songs which add to the fun.
But none would work without the splendid cast. Sarah Arpin takes the the title role by the fins. She is immensely charming with or without her voice which is hard to do.
Olivia Pedroza gets snaps for her steadfast Sebastian. She too has a great voice and utilizes it beautifully.
The ever helpful (sort of) Scuttle the Seagull is played by Lucy Guyer. She along with her other feathered friends get a newer song rightly titled Human Stuff.
Kelsie Engen swimmingly takes the part of Flounder on. This is her fourth production. It will not be her last.
The bewildered Prince Eric is played by Matt Ircink. He makes a good prince and makes you believe Ariel would risk much for him.
There is nothing more fun to play a villain. And Alyssa Balogh certainly gets her share. She deserves a metal, just surviving the costume.
And last but not least is Zachary Fraser as the unpredictable Triton who wants to do right by his daughter, but not know how. Do not miss your chance to journey under the sea to capture a hidden treasure.
The Little Mermaid Jr. is playing across from the Everett Performing Arts Center at the Second Stage Building January 18-27, 2013 at 7:30pm Sunday Matinees at 2:00pm For Ticket Information Call: (425) 257-8600 Tickets: $14 General Admission/$12 for Youth & Seniors
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