Mackenzie Richard as Ariel in the opening scene of Community Little Theatre’s “The Little Mermaid.” Submitted photo
Mackenzie Richard as Ariel, Cody Watson as Scuttle, and Leslie Gail Reed as Flounder in a scene from Community Little Theatre’s “The Little Mermaid.” Submitted photo
From left, Anna Sargent as Atina, Maddy Vaillancourt as Allana, Jayson Bray as King Triton, Samantha Melquist as Adella, and Mackenzie Finnegan as Arista perform in Community Little Theatre’s “The Little Mermaid.” Submitted photo
As the Lewiston-Auburn Community Little Theatre prepares to dim the footlights on its 83rd season and look to October’s inaugural production of its 84th, it has hefted on its shoulders a sweeping and breathtaking stage production of the intergenerational favorite “The Little Mermaid.”
Just look at the playbill to get a feel for what’s in store. First of all, the wonderfully talented and exuberant cast of over 30 actors plus ensemble players is amazing for a “little” theater.
Then, take another moment to scan page 26 of the playbill to appreciate the extent of “The Little Mermaid Production Team.” The list, too large to itemize here, is extensive, comprising family, friends and devotees of the theater.
Then, let the curtain rise, because this dedicated and talented group has brought the Hans Christian Andersen timeless tale to life, recreating all the vibrant color, marathon music and blockbuster feel of the Disney classic.
That so many shoulders have lifted and carried this production to fruition is testament to the fact that “Community Little Theatre” is at once precise in the term “community” and antithetical to the notion of “little.”
Director Becca Tinkham has skillfully teased wonderful performances from the impressive cast, while simultaneously overseeing set design, décor and choreography. Each excellent aspect of the production is apparent in the visible work of the supporting teams. Assistant Director and Stage Manager Brandon Chaloux and his team keep the action moving seamlessly.
The set is stunning, colorful and effective. Rapid scene changes move from “under” to “above” the sea in rolling swells. The show’s brilliant costuming is Broadway worthy. Whimsical props and charming puppetry pay dutiful homage to the animated fantasy of the Disney film.
Splendid choreography by Tinkham and her team of choreographers is so delightful and entrancing you’ll find yourself smiling enthusiastically to the many musical numbers. Highlights include “She’s in Love” with the “shoo-wop” mersisters, “Under the sea” with a thrilling cast of sea creatures, Scuttle’s “Positoovity” with the tap-dancing seagulls, and Sebastian’s Caribbean rhythmic “Kiss the Girl.” And Ursula’s “Daddy’s Little Angel” and the Act 1 finale “Poor Unfortunate Souls” are top-notch.
Particularly fun and unique is Chef Louis (Greg Lambert) in the “Les Poissons” number and reprise. Lambert’s kitchen culinary cut-up is delightfully reminiscent of the Swedish Chef from “The Muppet Show” and the reprise embraces a bit of Keystone Cops chaos.
The songs, which hold the entire story together, are orchestrated under the meticulous care — as usual — of Paul Caron’s musical direction. The orchestra and actors captivate with strong and lofty renditions of the many familiar tunes from the movie.
Now to the outstanding cast.
Mackenzie Richard as Ariel is as beautiful a mermaid princess as any young woman could possibly imagine. Her voice is soaring and angelic and her quest to find her place is touching and inspiring. Scotty Venable as Prince Eric is handsome and heroic as he sings with splendid emotion. He seeks the beautiful voice that has haunted him like a siren from his first oceanic encounter. His emotional turmoil, like Ariel’s, is to find where he truly belongs, and with whom.
Jayson Bray as King Triton, Ariel’s father, is thoroughly imposing as the merman monarch. His challenge of single parenthood and maintaining sovereignty are skillfully displayed. His six other beautiful mermaid daughters — played by Ansley Watson, Maria Groover, Makenzie Finnegan, Anna Sargent, Samantha Melquist and Maddy Vaillancourt — are not only dazzling, but also make up a terrific “song and swim” team.
Ariel’s friends, Flounder, the guppy (played by Leslie Gail Reed), Scuttle the seagull (played by Cody Watson), and Sebastian the crab (played by Germaine Robinson), are brought to showy and flamboyant life in the talented hands of these puppeteer performers. Meanwhile, Flotsam and Jetsam (played by Samantha Herriot and Julie Sanborn), the sea snakes and evil minions of Ursula the wicked sea witch, bring just the right chilling villainy to the dark side of the puppetry.
The commanding and intimidating presence of Triton’s evil sister, Ursula, is played with delicious evilness in both appearance and performance by Justin Morin, looming larger than life. Morin sings powerfully with gestures of maleficent gusto as Ursula’s tentacles slither ominously. The character is the perfect sinister threat to Triton’s kingdom and Ariel’s love for Prince Eric.
Prince Eric’s confidante, Grimsby (played by Chris Cifelli), is averse to the high seas — which his ward Eric so clearly loves — but is nonetheless committed to helping resolve Eric’s quest to find Ariel and overcome his reluctance to accept the crown. Grimsby’s loyalty is admirable and touching, even though comically employed.
And a special shoutout is absolutely due Ben Simpson as the stoic “Statue.” Now that’s some “method acting.”
The entire production is so wonderfully entertaining, heartwarming and well done that it should utterly bring out the child in everyone. So, bring out a child and come share this singularly fine production. “The Little Mermaid” is clearly a hit for L/A Community Little Theatre.
Remaining performances are Thursday to Sunday, Aug. 17, 18, 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Aug. 20 at 2 p.m. For tickets and information go to www.laclt.com or call 207-783-0958.
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