Review by Melanie Miller, Front Row Reviewers
Oquirrh Hills Performing Arts Alliance presents the delightful tale of The Little Mermaid and her infatuation with all things human is given fresh life at Magna‘s charming Empress Theatre as we are transported to the underwater kingdom of Ariel (Hannah Burke) and her father King Triton (Tony Sao). Ariel’s obsession with the human world infuriates her father, who insists that humans are dangerous and that she needs to steer clear of their wicked world. When Ariel saves a human, Prince Eric (Marcus Michalek) from drowning in a storm, she’s instantly smitten. She strikes up a deal with her wicked aunt, Ursula the sea-witch (Sam Phillips), to trade her voice for a pair of legs. She’s given three days to work her magic and get Eric to kiss her and she will get to stay human forever, If she fails, Ursula will get her soul. Of course, Ursula has no intention of playing fair.
Kayla Martin‘s and Phillips’ set design makes clever use of the space. Martin’s direction utilizes the entire theatre, truly immersing the audience in the feel of the ocean. There is some incredibly unique staging, including amazing aerial feats, such as swinging from ropes that make for a thrilling watch.
I was impressed with the casting of this show. There are some truly standout entertainers. Setu Lealaogta slays as the sassy Sebastian, who does his fishy part in stealing the show by rocking a dominating performance. “Under the Sea” is an all out spectacle, complete with a death drop ending. Lealoagta’s fresh take on our favorite crab is refreshing and fun to watch. Sao’s vocals are powerful and emotional as King Triton. His voice is a distinctively commanding presence as he conveys a father’s love and concern for his daughter. Gracie George and Beck Skeen give exceptional performances as Flotsam and Jetsom, Ursula’s creepy cohorts. Their acrobatics add to the slippery illusion of them channeling their inner eels–their gymnastics create the illusion of eels as they search for their prey. They are the perfect sidekicks to Phillips’ Ursula. Her menacing presence and strong vocals bring this ocean nemesis the perfect blend of humor and wickedness. One other hit character, Scuttle, is brought to life in a huge way by Johnnie Oliphant. His fun take on the crazy seagull begins with his crowd work before the show. His goofy but lovable performance keeps the audience smiling through the entire production. One fun departure from the movie version is the more prominent involvement of Ariel’s sisters. These mer-sisters (Mira Hulme, Tiaree McGee, RyeLynn Blair, Savana Lowe, Alecia Hall and Stella Peterson) really bring their individual personalities to life. Their brightness wows in “She’s in Love”, the 60’s style doo-wop number about Ariel’s new love.
Burke and Michalek truly rock Tanner Sumens’ choreography. Their sweet dancing scenes are some of my favorite of the night. Their portrayals of Ariel and Eric are truly sweet and stunning, so much so that I really wanted them to find their happy ending. I think the audience did, too.
Natalie Hathcock’s costumes are fantastic, especially the Matrix-esque styling of Phillips as Ursula. It gives a menacing otherworld feel to the character that is a uniquely fresh take. Ariel and Eric portrayed their characters so perfectly, many times it seems to have been taken directly off the screen of the Disney epic pic. It is a great blend of traditional and creative styling.
Enzo Imlay’s sound direction is great, as is the fun lighting design by Matthew Estes. Brad Davis’ beautiful music direction really showcases in the quartet number: “If Only” sung by Burke, Michalek, Sao, and Lealaogta. The blended voices and counter melodies is stunning, and truly a highlight of the entire production.
I would give this show two fins up! My friend Cindy and I were enamored with the show, the theatre, and the staff. Take a leap and dive into Oquirrh Hills Performing Arts Alliance’s The Little Mermaid. You won’t regret it!
Oquirrh Hills Performing Arts Alliance presents The Little Mermaid by Doug Wright, music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman (written for the film), with additional lyrics by Glenn Slater.
The Empress Theatre, 9104 West 2700 South, Magna, UT 84044
July 26 – August 10, 2024 7:30 PM
Tickets $25
Contact: empress@empresstheatre.com
The Little Mermaid Facebook Event
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