By Megan Hopfer
Fans of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” — and those who love musical theater in general — will not be disappointed with the live version of the beloved animated film that will splash onto the Civic Auditorium stage this November.
From stellar performances, to gorgeous costumes, beautiful sets and fun ensemble dance numbers, the Idaho Falls Youth Arts Centre’s production will take the stage on Nov. 10-11 and 13-14.
Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney's The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages.
This magical musical tells the story of the rebellious teenage mermaid Ariel, who seeks to defy her father and visit the human world up on land. Feeling confined by her life under the sea, Ariel makes a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula, trading her voice for human legs to find the prince of her dreams.
With music by eight-time Academy Award winner Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, including "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl" and "Part of Your World."
For 18 years, the Idaho Falls Youth Arts Centre has been providing quality productions in the Idaho Falls community. Director Cindy Benson is excited to bring her vision of The Little Mermaid to the stage.
“I love working with youth. I have worked with IFYAC several times;
the last being Peter Pan,” Benson says. “The Idaho Falls Youth Arts Centre gives young people the opportunity to develop new skills and life lessons through drama and music. I love directing and it is always thrilling to see how my vision comes together. The Little Mermaid is a beautiful, fun and dynamic vehicle for the cast to grow.”
This year’s cast features over 100 local performers and a 25-piece live orchestra.
Summer Gardner will be featured as the rebellious Ariel, and will be joined by Dalton Kohler as the dashing Prince Eric, Byron Heath as the protective King Triton, Kenny McMurphy as the lovable sidekick Sebastian, and Chelsea Schenk as the malevolent Ursula. And of course, the adventure under the sea wouldn’t be complete without Scuttle, Flounder, Chef Louis, Ariel’s beautiful mersisters, and many more.
Each year IFYAC brings professional live theater experiences to the youth of our community while giving them an opportunity to mentor with experienced actors and staff. The majority of the cast is under the age of 18, and this opportunity is possible for them because IFYAC’s mission is to provide quality opportunities to grow in the performing arts for young people through participation in music, dramatic arts and creative movement.
Disney’s The Little Mermaid runs November 10th, 11th, 13th, and 14th at 7:30 p.m. at the Civic Auditorium, with a special matinee performance on Saturday, Nov. 11. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at www.ifyac.org.
More information is also available at www.ifyac.org or by calling 208-557-3344.