By Christina Carrick
The Little Mermaid performed by Grassroots Shakespeare at the BYU Botany Pond in Provo is an admission-free night of free-spirited, Shakespearean delight! The script, written and compiled by scholar Christopher Clark, tells Hans Christian Andersen’s version of The Little Mermaid using words directly from Shakespeare’s many works. Clark saw a story that begged to be told as Andersen wrote it and as Shakespeare would have performed it. It is a jovial and light-hearted performance about love, sacrifice, and why you should always listen to your grandmother. I left with the conviction that Shakespeare is meant to be experienced and not just read.
Grassroots Shakespeare makes it their mission to bring the Bard to the people through free-to-attend, open-air performances during their summer tour. (Though they ask respectfully for donations and suggested donation is $5.00/person.) The troupe embraces Shakespeare’s theatrical methodology, meaning they have no director, each actor is self-costumed and at times cross-gendered, and they perform with very little rehearsal time. Audience participation is highly encouraged which makes the entire experience exciting and engaging. There is a live band which sets the tone for the entire evening. Musicians Robert Starks, Gary Argyle, Scott Robinson, Jason Sullivan, and Addison Radle add ambiance and character without ever interfering with the story being told on the stage.
The story is so effective despite its Elizabethan language because of the energy and talent of the troupe of 10n actors. Most play more than one character and breathe new life into each one seamlessly. Mira Kockerhans is an endearing and sympathetic Marina (The Little Mermaid). She is graceful and charismatic, and the audience yearns for her success, despite seeing the writing on the wall. She and Jarrith McCoy have excellent chemistry together. McCoy plays the arrogant, clueless prince with confidence and humor. He was surprisingly charming despite the fact that his character is so despicable.
The rest of the troupe plays various characters throughout the show. Ashlei Havili Thomas is a standout as the sea-witch and Marina’s emo sister. She is captivating and frightening in a humorous way. Her two sea creature companions are beautifully-made and exciting to watch. Because there are so few props, the few they use are exceptionally effective and eye-catching.
Brandon Bills plays the goofy “manservant” to the king. He has excellent comedic timing and a costume that could make you laugh before he even opens his mouth. His mannerisms tell the story of his character in a way his words alone can’t accomplish. He and Soren Budge (the king) work well off each other and always provide timely comedic relief.
The stage is sparse, but Steven Pond narrates beautifully, allowing the audience to fill the set with their imaginations. Pond has a knack for speaking Shakespeare’s words in a way that is understandable and engaging. Listening to his narrations is a celebration of the written and spoken word.
Troupe members Drake Hansen, Maddie Pettingill, Katie Bennion, and Olivia Ockey are impressive in their portrayals of so many different characters throughout the evening. They don’t only change wardrobes backstage between scenes, they also give new life and voices to each character they portray. They are a tribute to their craft.
Regardless of the authentic Elizabethan language, my children aged 5, 7, and 9 followed the story from start to finish and were excited to discuss the differences between the Disney story and the play the whole drive home. Grassroots Shakespeare is performing, Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays all over Utah. This is an experience for the entire family. Bring a blanket or some lawn chairs and enjoy the beautiful early-summer evenings by celebrating Shakespeare, creativity, and authentic art. This is what summers were made for.
Grassroots Shakespeare presents The Little Mermaid by Christopher Clark.
Check their website for locations and dates and times that are best suited for you.
June 3, 2019, 7:30 PM
FREE, but a donation is preferred
Contact: 707-722-7529, bard@grassrootsshakespeare.com
Grassroots Shakespeare Festival Facebook Page
Summer 2019 – The Little Mermaid by Christopher Clark & Henry V
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