Mercy Academy Theatre Program to present ‘The Little Mermaid’

Mercy Academy’s Theatre Program will go “under the sea” this month with their production of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” Performances will take place March 12-15 at the Mary Mershon Reisert Theater on Mercy’s campus.

Inspired by the 1989 animated classic from Walt Disney Animation Studios and the original fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, “The Little Mermaid” follows a young mermaid who longs to explore the world above the sea. 

Auditions for Mercy’s production began in November, and rehearsals began in December. Jason Cooper, Performing Arts Director at Mercy Academy, said the show is Mercy Theater Program’s first time staging a Disney production. 

“I chose this show because it is such a beloved classic and proven crowd pleaser,” he said. 

The show’s underwater world and cast of aquatic characters demand innovative technical design. Cooper said that audiences can expect a fresh, imaginative take on the show’s visual style, akin to an “underwater disco.” To bring this vision to life, acclaimed costume designer Frankie Lewis crafted the costumes, while Bluegrass Production Studio designed and built the intricate set.

“We are pulling out all the stops for this show,” Cooper said. 

Featuring a cast of 40 performers—including the ensemble and kid’s ensemble—along with a large, dedicated crew, the production showcases the collaborative spirit of Mercy’s theatre program.

“I hope the cast has an experience they can be proud of and learn the value of working as an ensemble,” Cooper said. “I want the audience to simply have a great time.”

Performances are set to take place Thursday, March 12 at 7 p.m., Friday, March 13 at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., Saturday, March 14 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 15 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $22 for the general public and $15 for students and seniors. To purchase tickets, click here. 

To learn more about Mercy Academy’s Theatre Program, click here.