Disney’s The Little Mermaid is Making Waves at the Kelsey Theatre!

by Lucinda Fisher Alvarez

Disney's The Little Mermaid, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, and book by Doug Wright, was presented by the Yardley Players at Kelsey Theatre on the campus of Mercer County Community College in West Windsor, New Jersey. This is one of Disney’s classic princess fairytales and it did not disappoint with dancing, singing, laughter, and fun! Under the direction of Kristy Davis, the production brought the beloved Disney classic to life through colorful staging, memorable songs, and energetic performances. Kristy Davis also choreographed the show breathing life into its most memorable songs and upbeat tunes. At its heart, The Little Mermaid is a story about following your dreams, finding your own voice, and discovering that love, acceptance, and understanding require courage and sacrifice.

The story follows Ariel, a curious young mermaid who dreams of exploring the human world, despite her father King Triton's warnings. After making a dangerous bargain with the sea witch, Ursula, in exchange for the chance to be with Prince Eric, Ariel must overcome numerous obstacles to reclaim her voice and save both her family and the kingdom. The musical's pacing kept the audience engaged from beginning to end, balancing humor, romance, and excitement with heartfelt emotional moments. Familiar songs such as "Part of Your World," "Under the Sea," and "Kiss the Girl" added to the storytelling and made the production entertaining for both children and adults.

The cast delivered enthusiastic and believable performances throughout the evening. Shealyn Davis portrayed Ariel with warmth, sincerity, and an expressive singing voice that captured the character's curiosity and determination. Jacob Rabinowitz gave Prince Eric a genuine charm that made his relationship with Ariel believable and filled the house with his brilliant voice during “Her Voice”. James LeGette was especially entertaining as Sebastian, combining excellent comedic timing with clear vocal projection and energetic movement. Gabrielle Affleck created a memorable Ursula by balancing humor with villainous confidence, commanding the stage whenever she appeared. Throughout the production, the performers demonstrated strong articulation, allowing dialogue and lyrics to be easily understood, while their gestures, facial expressions, and physical movement remained true to each character's personality. 

Brian Davis brought strength, dignity, and heartfelt emotion to King Triton, effectively portraying both the king's authority and his deep love for his daughter. Liz Wurtz was energetic and charismatic as Scuttle, using animated movement, expressive facial expressions, and excellent comic timing to keep the audience laughing. Victoria Bonilla gave Flounder an endearing and lovable personality, capturing the character's loyalty and nervous optimism through expressive acting and clear vocal delivery. As Grimsby, Barry Leonard provided warmth and wisdom, serving as a steady and believable mentor to Prince Eric while contributing subtle moments of humor.

The performers portraying the Mersisters (Bridget Fry, Suzie Borg, Annie Bryson, Bianca Torres, Kristin Kraus Learn, and Lauren Goldsborough), worked exceptionally well together, each creating a distinct personality while blending beautifully during their musical numbers. Their choreography, harmonies, and vibrant energy added excitement to every scene beneath the sea. Katelyn Giunta and Trevin Davis as Flotsam and Jetsam complemented Ursula perfectly, using synchronized movement, expressive body language, and mischievous expressions to create convincing and entertaining henchmen. Their chemistry with Ursula strengthened the show's darker moments while maintaining the fun, family-friendly tone.

One of the evening's comedic highlights came from Pat Rounds, who skillfully portrayed both Chef Louis and the Pilot. The exaggerated physical comedy, expressive reactions, and excellent timing during "Les Poissons" generated enthusiastic laughter from the audience, while the transition between the two contrasting roles demonstrated impressive versatility. Summer Martin and Grace Bolster as Windward and Leeward provided memorable comic relief through their playful interactions, expressive movement, and strong performances, adding charm and humor to Prince Eric's court.

The ensemble also deserves recognition for maintaining high energy during the production's large musical numbers and creating a vibrant underwater world and commitment throughout the performance. Whether portraying sea creatures, sailors, chefs, or members of Prince Eric's kingdom, every performer remained fully engaged and contributed to the vibrant atmosphere on stage. Their enthusiasm, synchronized choreography, expressive acting, and strong ensemble singing created a believable world that supported the principal characters and elevated the production as a whole. Throughout the cast, dialogue was well articulated, vocals were clear and balanced, and physical characterization consistently reflected each performer's role, making the entire production enjoyable and engaging. (Featured Dancers: Giusseppe D'Argenio, Nicandro D'Argenio, Seraphina D'Argenio, Hope Ghaffoor, Jordana Krieger, Sarah Lynn, Gabrielle Mueller, Kaylee Mueller and Celia Sparandera. Ensemble: Kheil Canono, Emre Celik, Karen Gray, Anna Gutherz, Suzanne Houston, Tameyah Jones, Deanna Kennedy, Jacob King, Cliff Kraus, Leslie Krauss, Hannah Lynn, Rebecca Lynn, Ulysses Lynn, Sydney Miller, Ron Pae, Leah Panuccio, Arianna Ravert, Gabriel Scarborough, Benjamin Schafer and Marge Swider.)

The technical and production team played a significant role in creating the magical world of Disney's The Little Mermaid. Producer Marge Swider successfully oversaw a polished and well-organized production that reflected careful planning and attention to detail. Musical Director and Conductor Lee Milhous led an outstanding orchestra whose performance was energetic, balanced, and supportive of the cast. The orchestra enhanced every musical number, maintaining appropriate tempos while allowing the performers' voices to shine. Orchestra: Carolyn Cuesta (Piccolo, Flute, Alto Flute), Beth Benson/Amanda Spratt (Oboe, English Horn), Eric Streckfuss (Clarinet, Alto Sax, Bass Clarinet, Tenor Sax), Jim Sheffer (Trumpet), Lisa Peterson/Frank Stroble (French Horn), Talia Fisher (Keyboard 1), Erik Aaron (Keyboard 2), Chris Ertelt (Keyboard 3), Will Augustin (Keyboard 4), Robbie Simmons (Bass) and JC Nicdao (Drums). Stage Manager Moira Gellman ensured the production ran smoothly, with scene changes executed efficiently and cues delivered seamlessly throughout the performance.

The scenic design by Shawn Simmons, with assistance from Edward Simmons, effectively transformed the stage into both the underwater kingdom and Prince Eric's world above the sea. The set pieces were imaginative, visually appealing, and functional, helping establish the whimsical atmosphere while allowing for fluid transitions between scenes. The colorful designs immediately transported the audience into the story and provided an excellent backdrop for the performers. The use of projections was well balanced with the standard set on stage. The ship scenes in particular were very cleverly created between the use of projections and actual set pieces.

The costume design by Kelli Beirne, Louisa Murray, and Marge Swider was one of the production's greatest strengths. Each costume reflected the personality of its character while remaining faithful to the beloved Disney aesthetic. The vibrant colors, detailed accessories, and creative interpretation of the sea creatures added visual excitement and helped distinguish each character. Hair and makeup complemented the costumes well, creating cohesive and believable characterizations.

The Props Crew (Delainey Bamond, Anna Basile, and Marge Swider) deserve recognition for their attention to detail throughout the production. The hand props were appropriate for both the underwater and human settings and were seamlessly integrated into each scene. From Prince Eric's nautical accessories to Chef Louis's kitchen implements and the various objects that supported Ariel's curiosity about the human world, the props enhanced the storytelling without distracting from the action. 

Lighting Designer M. Kitty Getlik used lighting effectively to establish mood, distinguish between the underwater and human worlds, and emphasize dramatic moments throughout the performance. The lighting transitions were smooth and enhanced the storytelling without distracting from the action on stage. Sound Designer Noah Schwartz provided clear amplification that allowed the audience to hear both dialogue and musical numbers with ease. The sound effects and musical balance contributed significantly to the atmosphere of the production, immersing the audience in Ariel's underwater adventure. Together, the technical and production staff created a visually and musically engaging theatrical experience that supported the cast and elevated the overall quality of the performance.

Overall, Disney's The Little Mermaid was an enjoyable, family-friendly production that successfully captured the magic and heart of the beloved musical. Swim on over to see this at the Kelsey Theatre running now until July 19th. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.purplepass.com/events/319343-disney-the-little-mermaid-jul-10th-2026. 

Location:  The Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College.

1200 OLD TRENTON ROAD, WEST WINDSOR, NJ 08550.