‘The Little Mermaid Jr.’ is a hidden treasure

By Meredith Pechta, Theater Reviewer | Jan 16, 2013
Photo by: Sam Freeman/NWPhoto Ursula – Alyssa Balogh Ursula’s tentacles (left to right) – Clarie Dayton, Sydney Morris, Cassia Ward, Jamie Kate Davelaar, Jordan Williams, Beth El Fattal, Rene Martin, Delaney Guyer.

Village Theatre presents the junior version of the Disney favorite “The Little Mermaid,” to open Jan. 18 on Kidstage. “The Little Mermaid Jr.” is a more condensed version of the Broadway show with a cast of children.

“The Little Mermaid” has been known and celebrated for more than a century now. It became even more popular by Disney’s version with catchy songs and memorable characters.

Now Kidstage brings their own brand of magic to the tale with impressive costumes and voices.

A mermaid named Ariel dreams of being human. She soon falls in love with a human from afar – a prince. Her protective father Triton is furious.

She is determined to join Prince Eric, but her choice to do so has consequences. An evil sea witch sees a prospect to get her tentacles the king’s power by making a deal with Ariel.

Ursula the sea witch helps Ariel by turning her into a human for three days, during which time her prince must fall in love with her for the spell to become permanent.

In exchange, Ariel must give up her voice. Luckily, her friends Sebastian, Flounder and Scuttle are around to help her out.

Kidstage has been a part of the Village Theatre for some time, yet it was only last year that they got their own building across from the Everett Performing Arts Center. In their little theater, children can learn the art of acting.

The costumes of this production defy description. The songs are, of course, wonderful. The Broadway show saw fit to add three additional songs, which adds to the fun.

But none would work without the splendid cast. Sarah Arpin takes the title role by the fins. She is of immensely charming with or without her voice, which is hard to do.

Olivia Pedroza gets snaps for her steadfast Sebastian. She too has a great voice and utilizes it beautifully.

The ever-helpful Scuttle – the seagull at least means well – is played by Lucy Guyer. She, along with her other feathered friends, gets a newer song rightly titled “Human Stuff.”

Kelsie Engen swimmingly takes on the part of Flounder. This is her fourth production. It won’t be her last.

The bewildered Prince Eric is played by Matt Ircink. He makes a good prince and makes you believe Ariel would risk much for him.

There is nothing more fun to play than a villain. And Alyssa Balogh certainly gets her share playing Ursula. She deserves a metal, just surviving the costume.

And last but not least is Zachary Fraser as the unpredictable Triton who wants do right by his daughter, but doesn’t know how.

Don’t miss your chance to journey under the sea to capture a hidden treasure.

“The Little Mermaid Jr.” is playing at the Second Stage Theatre in Everett across from Performing Arts Center Jan. 18-27 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday’s matinees are at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $14 for general admission and $12 for youth and seniors. For more information, call 425-257-8600.

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