The Little Mermaid at Harnett Regional Theatre is a Fine Catch
Reviewed by Catherine Kelly
April 28, 2023
Superlative talent hits the stage for Disney’s The Little Mermaid at Harnett Regional Theatre, running April 28 through May 7.
HRT’s production delivers the comforting elements of a familiar story, with sing-along-worthy songs and costumes inspired by the iconic animated film. It also incorporates personal touches that borderline on the magical and create a first-time experience for audiences of all ages. Director Jacob Godwin infuses the action with surprises ranging from slap-stick hilarity to subtle dramatic moments that tug at the heartstrings. The actors deliver lines with energy and fresh personality. The primarily off-white set, featuring draped fabrics that bring ship sails to mind (Bob Schmidt), is reminiscent of a painter’s canvas, on which exciting light design (Jacob Godwin), video projection (Deanna Keen), and bedazzling costumes (Amy Langdon) bring the story to life.
With a premise that relies heavily on a performer with golden pipes in the title role, Marie Spidale delivers as Ariel. Spidale’s voice is equally dreamy and full-bodied, and she swims between a sweet upper register and a clear belt in her lower register with masterful technique. The sound design (Jacob Godwin, Heather Foster) earns recognition for creating the ethereal effect of Ariel’s voice reverberating offstage while she is rendered speechless after an unfortunate trade-off with the sea witch, Ursula.
Speaking of sea witches, Juanita Velazquez’s initial appearance as Ursula warranted an audible gasp from the audience on Friday evening. Velazquez achieves the strikingly glamorous, self-confident Ursula of Disney villain dreams. I found myself rooting for Ursula, despite her self-described “nasty” behavior; not because of the character’s attributes, but because of Velazquez’s delicious delivery. Together with Flotsam and Jetsam (Sarah Goforth, Christie West), this evil trio exudes “mean girl” energy that is, admittedly, quite fun to watch.
Jason Williams is a charming Prince Eric, embodying the spirit of a sailor-at-heart along with the sincerity befitting a Disney prince. Williams’ gentle tenor voice enjoys several opportunities to shine in the stage version of this musical, where the animated film somewhat snubs this character in terms of musical opportunities. It is refreshing to hear more from Prince Eric.
Ariel’s companions, Flounder and Sebastian (Giada Ingram, Gregory Hill), are so endearing in this production that, audiences be warned, some viewers might swear off any future seafood dinners. Both Ingram and Hill enjoy high-energy singing and dancing numbers, and the audience on Friday night received these performances with equally energetic applause.
The cast of nearly 50 performers also includes crowd favorites Scuttle (Emily Pearce) and Chef Louis (Steve Holly), both of whom rendered raucous laughter and loud cheers from the audience. Eddie White delivers a firm yet affectionate King Triton, and Curt West is delightful as posh Grimsby. Ariel’s singing sisters (Brigette Stephens, Julie Sultan, Casey Stewart, Macy Blackburn, Mary Holly, and Dianne Knight) are equally comedic and musical, with lovely harmonies coached by music director Marta Bringhurst.
The backbone of any successful production is a strong ensemble, and this group of performers is up for the challenge. Sailors, Chefs, Gulls, Maids, and Sea Creatures sing, dance (including a noteworthy tap number choreographed by Patsy Castellano), and act with relentless energy throughout the production (Brady West, Craig Cangioli, Caleb Humphrey, Stephen Holly, Tyler Yeager, Shelton Burkart, Lily Dunn, Maggie Holly, Ella Butts, Zoe Candy, Savannah Lee, Kelli Holly, Max Holly, Nora Williams, Melissa Dailey, Macy Blackburn, Rhonda Stephens, Amy Langdon, Scarlett Moore, Abigail Godwin, Danni West, Rose West, Adalyn Dailey, Amara Walsh, Raegen Miller, Kainen Cangioli, Talia Cangioli, Mackenzie Hill, Rachel Harris).
Tickets are $18 and can be purchased online at www.onlinehrt.org.
