With the Easter holidays just around the corner, Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr is set to make a splash at the Milkwood Theatre in Durban from April 2 to 12. The production, staged by The Young Performers’ Project, features a cast of 50 young performers and is inspired by Hans Christian Anderson’s fairy tale and the classic animated Disney movie.
The story follows Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, as she wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colourful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea.
Bringing the Magic to Life
The Little Mermaid Jr offers a fantastic creative opportunity for rich costumes and sets, as well as the chance to perform some of the best-known songs from the past 30 years. The production is directed by Daisy Spencer, with choreography by Evashnee Pillay, music direction by Des Govender, sound design by Ant Govender, set and prop design by Nicolene Steyn and fabulous under the sea inspired costumes by Kathy Singery.
According to the Wikipedia page on The Little Mermaid, the original story has been adapted and reimagined in many different ways over the years, but the core message of following your dreams and being true to yourself remains the same.
A Heartwarming Full Circle Moment
In a heartwarming full circle moment, Sindi Mavimbela, a current drama teacher, reflected on her own experience as a participant in YPP’s 2009 production of Big River, directed by Themi Venturas. Her daughter Azania, who entered the project seventeen years later in A Fairytale Christmas Carol and is a key member of the cast, is a testament to the organisation’s lasting influence.
The first show is a special Relaxed Performance on Thursday 2 April at 2.30, where theatre etiquette guidelines are relaxed and the performance is consciously calmed, with the auditorium lights dimmed, but not dark, and the audience meeting the characters ahead of time. This Relaxed Performance is ideal for audience members with sensory sensitivities.
For more information on the benefits of relaxed performances, visit the National Autistic Society website, which provides valuable resources and guidance on creating inclusive and accessible events.
- Relaxed Performance on Thursday 2 April at 2.30
- Normal performances from April 2 to 12
- Audiences are welcome to dress up as the cast
