Summer Theatre of New Canaan Production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid Makes a Splash with Visual Magic and Family Charm

Attending a Saturday matinee of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, directed by Arbender J. Robinson for Summer Theatre of New Canaan (STONC), feels like stepping into a Disney theme park—filled with the joyful chaos of little “minnows” experiencing their first live performance, families making forever memories, and just enough magic to keep the child-free adults (like me) engaged too. It’s a production that leans into spectacle, dazzling the eyes and sparking the imagination. From costumes (Lauren Nicole Sherwood) that actually light up, to glittering sequin trains that swirl and whirl around the dancing mermaids on stage, STONC’s revival of Disney’s The Little Mermaid offers a magical feast for the eyes.

Individual vocal performances and exceptional musicality shine under the sea. Keisha T. Fraser (Ursula) lights up the stage with her booming voice and larger-than-life portrayal of the formidable seawitch, commanding the stage from the moment she steps onto it. Ursula is flanked by the equally marvelous duo, Flotsam (Gray Mortier) and Jetsam (Logan Mortier). Mortier and Mortier execute the “Fosse-esk” choreography of Isaiah Tyrelle Boyd’s (Choreographer) with fluidity and precision. Further, Ariel’s (Laura Renee Mehl) physicality and vocal strength anchor the show, though a lighter vocal tone might have served to bring more naivety to her character Further, Aidan  Cole’s (Prince Eric) vocals during “Her Voice” are especially notable. His seemingly makes an emotional plea to the audience for help in finding the voice that has captured his heart. Additionally, Jason Williams (Sebastian) adds an appropriate touch of sassiness to the stage with his portrayal of Sebastian. His skillful physicality crescendos during “Les Poissons Mayhem” opposite the equally hilarious and physically exuberant performance of Christoper Isolano (Chef Louis).

James Hart (Technical Director) coordinates many stand-out technical elements.  The lighting design (Kevin Gleason) and set design were exceptional. Transitions from sea to shore are clear, and the strategic use of a rear multimedia screen (Grace Griffin and Alexa Lunney) aids in visual storytelling. The screen adds real depth to the stage without overshadowing the beautifully crafted set pieces framing the stage. Additionally, the aerial acrobatics and flying effects (ZFX) bring exciting moments for adults and children alike, thanks in part to aerial flight doubles, Isabella St. Philip (Ariel Flight Double) and Simon Grogan (Prince Eric Flight Double). In addition, Doug Shankman’s (Tap Choreographer) choreography is fun and upbeat in Scuttle’s (Mike Katz) tap number. To simulate swimming, the original Broadway cast used roller skates.  STONC opts out of using roller skates on stage and instead chooses long sequin trains  for the mermaids and upper body movements that simulate swimming.  These choices, along with the ZFX aerial effects, successfully give the audience the impression of characters being in water or underwater at appropriate times throughout the performance.

The stage adaptation of Disney's The Little Mermaid was written by Doug Wright (book), with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater. The musical is based on the 1989 animated film and the original Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale—which has a much grimmer ending for the little mermaid who falls hopelessly in love with the human prince. However, the stage adaptation follows the original Disney film closely, until the end which wraps up the story pretty quickly, omitting Ursula’s attempt to capture Eric’s heart by shape-shifting. This omission in the stage adaptation is a reduction in archetypes for Ursula’s character when compared to the film and actually reduces her complexity as a character. Wright attempts to address this with the addition of a storyline regarding Ursula and Triton being siblings in the staged adaptation which is not part of the animated film or fairy tale. This addition to the story is largely left unexplored, remaining consistent with the Disney tradition where villains vanish into the void with no redemptive arc in sight—especially when a happy ending is required.

Nevertheless, some additions to the staged version created stellar standout moments that elevate the animated version into a true Broadway crowd-pleaser. “If Only,” (Quartet) is an exemplary moment led by the Musical Director, Alex Parrish. The harmonies in the piece showcase the strong musicality among the principals, including Joseph Torello (Triton) whose rich baritone voice and powerful on stage presence is well suited to the role. In addition, the expressive lighting (Kevin Gleason), and well-balanced sound (Daniel Bria) make the piece a true Broadway “showstopper.” 

 During the matinee performance, there were a few technical hiccups—a missed microphone cue during “She’s in Love,” some audio feedback at various points, and a moment where Sebastian’s left spat lifted and exposed his black shoe at the start of Act II. Surprisingly, this costume issue was never corrected, even when the performer walked off stage multiple times.  Additionally, when Ariel signed the contract with Ursula, Ariel’s signature appeared on the screen before Ariel picked up Ursula’s tentacle to sign it.

Complete with its vibrant visuals and family-friendly appeal, STONC’s production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid offers a theatrical experience full of Disney magic! While clearly geared toward younger audiences—from themed concessions, sales of stuffed toys, and free temporary tattoos—there's also plenty here for theatergoers of all ages to enjoy. The attention of the youngest members of the audience was admirable.  However, be ready to navigate aspiring mermaids swimming through your legs in the lobby and long ladies’ restroom lines at intermission—all part of the adventure at a packed matinee. Luckily, friendly volunteers are there to help manage the crowds and ensure the experience stays magical for everyone—tall and small.

STONC’s production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid runs through July 27th at the auditorium at New Canaan High School at 11 Farm Road. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.STONC.org.