The Company of ‘ Disney’s the Little Mermaid’ at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment, directed by Glenn Casale and now through June 16, 2024. Photo Credit: Jason Niedle/Tethos
In a theatrical whirlwind of enchantment, La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts brings forth ‘Disney’s The Little Mermaid‘, a spectacle that will truly leave audiences spellbound. From the moment one steps into the realm ‘Under the Sea,’ they are transported into a world where the magic of storytelling reigns supreme, expertly curated by a cast and creative team whose brilliance shines as brightly as the sunlit waves.
Leianna Weaver makes a splash 0n stage as the spirited ‘Ariel’, her portrayal a seamless blend of grace and charm that effortlessly embodies the essence of innocence and longing. Alongside her, Coleman Cummings commands attention as the dashing ‘Prince Eric’, infusing the production with a magnetic presence that reignites even the most jaded hearts’ belief in love. Their on-stage chemistry is palpable, drawing the audience into a realm where dreams are realized and true love knows no bounds.
Yet, it is the dynamic duo of Dana Orange as the lovable ‘Sebastian’ and Regina Le Vert as the deliciously wicked ‘Ursula’, who steal the spotlight, their performances injecting the production with a magic that transports viewers back to the animated masterpiece that captured hearts in 1989. With each note sung and every line delivered, they breathe life into characters that have become beloved icons of the Disney legacy. The Hidden Mickey’s of this performance are Mitchell Lam Hau and Christopher Ho’s Flotsam and Jetsam, respectively. One would have never believe how rhythmic the eels could be as the glide across the stage.
Under the visionary direction of Glenn Casale, every moment of the production is infused with a sense of wonder and awe, whisking audiences away to a realm where the impossible becomes possible. From the breathtaking choreography by John MacInnis to the soul-stirring musical direction of Brent Crayon, every element of the show is meticulously crafted to evoke the same joy and wonder that enchanted audiences over three decades ago.
In true to Disney magic form, Paul Rubin, was the one making it possible for the swimming moments as the flying sequences choreographer. According to Rubin, Weaver’s first time on the wires was earlier this week. In fact, every cast member on the wires, with the exception of one had never done wire work prior to this show.
At the heart of this enchanting journey are the incomparable talents of Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, whose contributions have shaped the landscape of Disney Renaissance. A resume that reads like a roll call of iconic productions, Menken’s compositions have become synonymous with the Disney magic, enchanting audiences with unforgettable melodies that have earned him eight Oscars, eleven Grammys, and a host of other prestigious awards. Together with Howard Ashman, whose creative genius breathed life into beloved classics like, ‘ Disney’s The Little Mermaid‘, ‘Disney’s Aladdin‘ and ‘Disney’s Beauty and the Beast‘, their collaboration defined an era of storytelling that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Glenn Slater, the lyricist behind the Broadway and international hits ‘Sister Act‘ and ‘Disney’s The Little Mermaid‘, brings his own brand of magic to the stage, co-creating Disney’s 2010 smash hit ‘Tangled‘ and contributing to a legacy of unforgettable musical moments. With a knack for crafting lyrics that resonate with audiences long after the curtain falls, Slater’s work adds depth and emotion to every scene, weaving a tapestry of storytelling that transcends time and space.
Together, these visionary artists have crafted a production that pays homage to the timeless appeal of Disney’s animated classics while breathing new life into the beloved tale of ‘Disney’s The Little Mermaid‘; from Menken’s soaring melodies to Ashman’s poignant lyrics and Slater’s masterful storytelling, every element of the production is infused with a sense of wonder and whimsy that captures the imagination and touches the heart.
Behind the scenes, the creative team works tirelessly to bring the underwater kingdom to life. With stunning lighting by Charlie Morrison, captivating costumes coordinated by Adam Ramirez, and exquisite hair and makeup design by Kaitlin Yagen and Madison Medrano, every detail is carefully curated to immerse viewers in a world of fantasy and imagination.
Take the plunge into this magical journey ‘Under the Sea‘ and experience the wonder of ‘Disney’s The Little Mermaid‘ like never before. With its unforgettable songs, timeless characters, and universal message of love and acceptance, this theatrical masterpiece is an experience not to be missed. Prepare to be swept away—it’s an adventure you’ll treasure for a lifetime!
Tickets range from $22 – $129 (prices subject to change) and can be purchased at La Mirada Theatre’s website www.LaMiradaTheatre.com or by calling the La Mirada Theatre Box Office at (562) 944-9801 or (714) 994-6310. Group and military discounts are available. Student Tickets are available for $19. Children under 3 will not be admitted into the theatre.
La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts is located at:
14900 La Mirada Boulevard in La Mirada, CA 90638 near the intersection of Rosecrans Avenue where the 91 and 5 freeways meet. Parking is FREE.
Summary
‘Disney’s The Little Mermaid‘ takes you, ‘Under the Sea’ with baited breath as you hope to, ‘Kiss the Girl’ in this heartwarming performance at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts. This musical is beyond exceptional and transforms the magic from celluloid to the stage like no one else could.
