There are many things that Disney movies and The Muny productions have in common, and perhaps the most prevalent of them all is magic. The outdoor theatre in Forest Park has a the ability to transport audiences to all kinds of lands. Or, as is the case for this week’s production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, a thousand leagues under the sea.
I must admit that I had forgotten all but the bare bones story of Ariel’s journey from a beautiful, melodious mermaid to a leg-bearing, voiceless human before I saw the show this week. However, The Muny tells the underwater tale with everything you might expect from a Disney production: breathtaking sets and flashy costumes, swirls of color and swift choreography, and a cast you can’t tear your attention from.
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Emma Degerstedt shines as Ariel in her metallic mermaid gowns courtesy of Robin L. McGee’s expert costume designs. Degerstedt has the infectious energy to keep even the most tired of toddlers on the edge of their seats. The actress lives up to her character’s claim to fame as the “voice of the ocean,” especially during her powerful solos in “Part of Your World” and “If Only.”
Nevertheless, a Disney princess wouldn’t be complete without her prince, and Degerstedt’s counterpart, Jason Gotay, plays the perfect charmer as Prince Eric. The on-stage chemistry between the two is undeniable, and Gotay’s strong voice makes his performance one you don’t want to miss.
If you thought your kids might get bored with this love story, think again. The humor abounds in the production’s impressive ensemble. Spencer Jones plays an adorable, hopelessly romantic Flounder, while Jeffrey Schecter blubbers his way through his hilarious portrayal of Scuttle. His performance of “Positoovity,” complete with a chorus line of tap dancing birds, is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. James T. Lane puts on a convincing accent and crab-walk routine for his endearing role as Sebastian, Ariel’s guardian crustacean. Though sometimes the accent seems to take precedent over the singing, Lane brings a delightful cheer to the stage.
On the darker side of the story, Emily Skinner plays a terrifically evil Ursula with big comedic flair. Her sinister voice resembles that of an older Brooklyn woman (in the best way possible), and she nails her wicked song “Poor Unfortunate Souls.” What’s most impressive, however, is the villain’s stature. It might take you a song or so to catch it from the free seats—Ursula’s tentacles are actually an innovative blend of creative costumes and nimble dancers.
The show is full of that kind of crafty ingenuity. Eels, dancing jellyfish, and neon fish galore courtesy of Puppet Kitchen Productions bring the aquatic scenes to life. The show’s transitions from land to sea are made seamless by Michael Schweikardt’s scenic designs and Matthew Young’s video backdrops. The production does tend to focus on the happy ending rather than intense scenes of shipwreck or Ursula’s demise, which can make the story feel a little too jovial at times. But if you’re looking for laughs and fun with the family, then dive right in. The Muny does this Disney classic right.
See The Little Mermaid at The Muny (#1 theatre in Forest Park) now until June 29. Performances start at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $15-$95, and are available online.
