By Joanie Cox-Henry
All photos by Larry Marano
The cast of Slow Burn Theare takes audiences to new depths of delight with their production of Disney's The Little Mermaid. Based on the classic Han Christian Andersen tale and Disney's cartoon interpretation, the musical adaptation of The Little Mermaid is perfect for audiences of all ages. The show initially made its grand debut on Broadway in 2008. The show is packed with familiar hits such as "Part of Your World," "Under The Sea" and "Kiss The Girl."
Melanie Fernandez is a dream Ariel with an angelic voice and graceful choreography. She brings the innocence and curiosity of this beloved character to life with ease.
Jesse Smith is an absolutely perfect, showstopping Sebastian. The sassy cartoon crab had very big shoes to fill in the musical version and Smith shines as the coolest crustacean with strong vocals and a whimsical flair.
Heather Jane Roloff brings Ursula to life with a wickedly wild pizazz. Arguably Disney's greatest villain, the sea witch with a king-size chip on her shoulder does the iconic number "Poor Unfortunate Souls" justice.
Flounder, portrayed by Kyle Kemph ignited the stage with a showstopping rendition of "She's In Love." The audience on opening night went wild during this number and rightfully so. It was flawless.
Nate Promkul's performance as Prince Eric is powerful and joyful and Wilkie Ferguson impressively doubled as musical director for this show and King Triton.
Choreography in this show becomes a dance of underwater poetry, as the ensemble glides and twirls in movements that mimic the ebb and flow of ocean currents. The attention to detail in these sequences, particularly the underwater ballet element, adds a layer of visual magic that elevates the entire production. The seamless integration of technology, such as the mesmerizing underwater effects, further enhances the sense of being immersed in a watery world.
But perhaps what truly sets this rendition apart from other stage productions is its ability to capture the emotional heart of the original story. The themes of love, sacrifice, and self-discovery draw the audience into Ariel's journey with a sense of emotion that transcends the animated source material.
The Little Mermaid musical is a theatrical triumph that caters to both the young and the young at heart. It's a celebration of imagination, a symphony of laughter and tears, and a testament to the enduring magic of Disney storytelling. So, whether you're reliving the tale you cherished as a child or experiencing it for the first time, this musical promises an unforgettable dive into a world where dreams come true and happily-ever-afters abound. Frankly, it's a welcome escape everyone could use right now.
The Little Mermaid runs at Slow Burn Theatre in Fort Lauderdale through Dec. 31.
Get your tickets today! This show is a must-sea.
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