The bottom line
Disney's The Little Mermaid Jr., playing at the Village Theatre in a KidStage production through April 27, is a classic tale of parent/teen conflict told with song, dance and beautiful costumes. At about an hour-and-a-half long with one 15-minute intermission, this musical is a good pick for most ages, from preschool on up.
Highlights
This musical adaptation of the timeless Disney movie about a mermaid who feels she doesn't belong in her father’s undersea kingdom and longs to explore the human world is performed by a KidStage ensemble that ranges in age from grades 6-9. The youngest cast members play various sea creatures and sing in the chorus, while the older kids take on the lead roles.
Glittery costumes and lighting bring the undersea world to vivid life. Actors wave blue material stretched across the stage to create a rippling, wave-like effect. Performers glide across the stage on “Heelies” (tennis shoes with wheels in the heel), adding to the illusion of being underwater.
Kids will especially enjoy the hilarious scene when Chef Louis (Fabiano Nardone) chases Sebastian the crab (Sophie Poole) around the kitchen. Katie Leszynski also provides lots of laughs as the silly seagull Scuttle. All of the young actors performed well in this polished production.
Kid quote: From my 14-year-old daughter: “Excellent acting, and the singing was better than I could’ve imagined!”
If you go ...
Where: Village Theatre, First Stage Theater, 120 Front St. N., Issaquah
When: Disney's The Little Mermaid Jr. runs April 11–27, Thursday-Sunday
Tickets: $16–$18. Purchase tickets online or buy at 425-392-2202.
Tips: Bottled water and candy are available for sale in the lobby. The theater is right next to several eateries, including Domino’s Pizza, Confetti Cupcakes, Yum-E Yogurt, and many other choices.
There is plenty of parking, all within a short walk to the theater.
