Musical Spotlight: The Little Mermaid

A girl looks up from the ocean floor and wonders what else is out there. That image drives The Little Mermaid on stage. It tells a tale about curiosity and courage, wrapped in bright colors and a singing sea. Many theaters and schools choose this story because families know the world, and young casts can shine in it. This new spotlight explores how the musical has grown, from its Broadway beginnings to the versions we see today.

Creative Team
The magic behind the show comes from a fantastic creative team. Alan Menken and Howard Ashman provided the score for the popular 1989 Disney film. For the stage, Menken composed additional songs with lyricist Glenn Slater, while Doug Wright wrote the book. Together, they capture Ariel's spirit and enrich the roles of Eric, Ursula, and the ensemble (The New York Times).

Premiere History
The musical opened on Broadway at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre after an out-of-town trial. Directed by Francesca Zambello and choreographed by Stephen Mear, the original production featured an imaginative underwater design by George Tsypin and lighting by Natasha Katz. The star cast included Sierra Boggess as Ariel, Sean Palmer as Prince Eric, Norm Lewis as King Triton, and Sherie Rene Scott as Ursula. The show ran for 50 previews and 685 performances before closing (Playbill).

Synopsis
The plot is simple yet powerful. Ariel, a mermaid princess, dreams of the human world. After rescuing Prince Eric from a storm, she makes a risky deal with her aunt, Ursula, the sea witch. She trades her voice for legs, needing to earn true love's kiss before time runs out. Meanwhile, Eric searches for the girl who saved him. In the end, Ariel finds her voice, and harmony returns to the ocean (MTI).

Signature Songs
The score includes many familiar favorites like “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” and “Kiss the Girl.” New songs added for the stage, like “Her Voice” and “One Step Closer,” enhance the characters' emotions. Songs like “If Only” bring together Ariel, Eric, and Triton, weaving their hopes into a beautiful moment (MTI).

Notable Revivals
Licensed versions have changed over the years. Productions now often include “Daddy's Little Angel” for Ursula, replacing the original song “I Want the Good Times Back.” The licensed edition also gives more moments to the ensemble, allowing schools and community theaters to showcase more talent (MTI).

Cultural Impact
The Little Mermaid has a lasting impact. Kids discover Ariel early on and then meet her again as teens and adults. They sing her songs at home and on stage. Directors appreciate this title for its welcoming nature, allowing fresh artists, designs, and voices to shine. This adaptability ensures the show remains vibrant (MTI).

Production Tips
For those planning to produce the show, think about how to make the ocean a living part of the performance. Use colored lights that can change quickly and lightweight fabrics to suggest a flowing current. Remember to focus on clear singing during melodies. Ensuring strong diction will help the audience connect with every word (The New York Times).

Ariel's desire to explore drives the story forward, and the stage meets her with vibrant colors, light, and song. The Little Mermaid teaches that curiosity starts the journey. For anyone producing this show, it offers a gentle reminder that with care and creativity, the journey can lead to a beautiful shore.