27.27°C One of Disney’s best-known features and musicals is brought vividly and confidently to life at The Mercury Theatre by the talented Colchester Operatic Society. It’s no mean feat to tackle such a well-known and beloved musical, but all their hard work has really paid off with a show that feels warm to audiences who know the material and welcomes new viewers to discover it.
It’s a classic tale of prince meets princess – the only obstacle here is that she’s a mermaid and he is human, and her aunt, the “Sea Witch” Ursula, does her best to scupper proceedings. Under the expert guidance of the creative team – Adam Woodhouse (director), Neil Somerville (musical director), and assistant director Laura Hicks – the company brings high levels of energy, and the show looks fantastic. Waves of talent have washed up on the Mercury stage.
As Ariel, Amrit Sihra shimmers with talent, demonstrating excellent vocal skills and encompassing the part perfectly. Tom Pleasant brings all his charming prince abilities to the role of Prince Eric, Ellie-Marie Chapman is a delightful Flounder, and Holly Pleasant gives strong quirkiness to the seagull Scuttle.
The talent continues with Wayne Setford delivering effective authority as King Triton, Andrew Hodgson providing equally effective landlubber authority as Grimsby, and Leanne Barber excelling as Sebastian, keeping her sideways crab moves consistent throughout!
Everyone loves a villain, and Becki Lee has a ball playing Ursula, while Keith Hammond and Sarah White are enjoyable acolytes. Emma Theedom gives a show-stealing turn as Chef Louis – one of the highlights of the production – and I’m already looking forward to seeing her as Mrs Lovett in Sweeney Todd, a role she is surely destined for.
The ensemble is great, and there are many highlights, especially the roof-raising Under the Sea, with some effective projections firmly locating us in each setting. Although some of the footwear is a little bland, the costumes are vibrant and imaginative, and special mention must go to the technical team for keeping the show running as smoothly as possible. As always, COS have met the challenge, and kids of all ages will love it!
Until 9th Feb – Colchester Operatic Society – The Little Mermaid – Mercury Theatre, Colchester.
Tickets: https://www.mercurytheatre.co.uk/event/colchester-operatic-society-the-little-mermaid/
Photo Credit: Stephen Ball
