“Just look at the world around you ~ such wonderful things surround you ~ what more is you lookin’ for?” Indeed, life under the sea is a magical kingdom. But even amid the wonders of the ocean floor, the spirited young mermaid Ariel dreams of a life beyond the waves. Desperate to follow her heart, she strikes a dangerous bargain with the sea witch Ursula, trading her tail for legs. But the deal is far from what it seems, and Ariel must rely on her loyal friends Flounder, Scuttle and Sebastian to help make things right in her underwater world.

Taking center stage as the curious and courageous Ariel is McKinley Porth (Les Misérables: Student Edition), who shines as she follows her heart toward the human world ~ and the dashing Prince Eric, played by Landon Watts (Grease). But love isn’t smooth sailing. Lurking in the depths is the wicked Ursula, brought to life with devious delight by Alex Fossum (Something Rotten), flanked by her slippery sidekicks Flotsam and Jetsam, portrayed with sinister style by Megan Anderson (Mary Poppins) and Taryn Davis (A Christmas Story: The Musical).

Thankfully, help is never far. From the sky soars Town newcomer Adam Hobbs as the eccentric seagull Scuttle. From the sea, Nathan Jackson (Elf) clicks into action as the ever-anxious Sebastian, joined by the love-struck Flounder, shared by Olivia Hite (Shrek Jr.) and Lacie Walko (Beauty and the Beast). Ariel’s powerful father, King Triton, commands the stage in the capable hands of Todd Gustafson (Bright Star), while Prince Eric’s loyal caretaker, Grimsby, is portrayed by David Wilson (A Christmas Story: The Musical).

Floating gracefully through the tale are the charming Mersisters: Jane Cato (Grease), Carly Grosse (The Sound of Music), Addison Monroe (Elf Jr.), and Town newcomers Emily Banks, Emily Grace McIntyre and Aajay Pinder. Adding energy and humor as sailors, chefs, courtiers, and gulls are Liam Amil (Anything Goes), Connor Etcheson (Joseph…), Jeremy Gaines (in his Town debut), James Nolan (Grease) and Josh Rowe (Beauty and the Beast). Joining the magical journey from both land and sea are Agnes Babb, Lola Carroll, Meryn Creasman, Penry Gustafson, Betsy Jackson, Maren MacConnell, Ariana Mejia, Sophia Mejia, Grayson Norene, Leah Tudor and Megan Walker. And our talented youth ensemble ~ Raegan Bolden, Grant Cobb, Sam Douthitt, Kylie Harley, Bay Kendricks, TJ Leitzsey, Elizabeth Maxham, Mary Rowe, Melody Trotter, Walt Trotter and Wren Wilson ~ bring waves of wonder to every scene.

Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless tale and the beloved Disney animated film, The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story that will sweep you off your feet. Dive into this splashy adventure ~ you’ll wish you were under the sea, too! The show runs July 11-27 with tickets on sale June 24 starting at 12 noon.

The Little Mermaid is directed and choreographed by Shannon Willis Scruggs with music direction by Lou Boeschen. Set design is by Bob Bramhall with technical direction by Jeremy Hansard. Costumes are provided by Janet Kile, lights by Jeremy Hansard, stage management by Chelsey Art and props by Gina Janvrin.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

Flying effects provided by ZFX, Inc.