1 Mar 23

Primary Musical announced: Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr

Newsletter | Performing Arts

During the first chapel of the year, the Primary Musical Team announced our show for 2023: Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr.

Journey “under the sea” with Ariel and her aquatic friends in Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr., adapted from Disney’s Broadway production and the motion picture (featuring the enormously popular Academy Award-winning music and delightfully charming book and lyrics). Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories.

With the help of Ariel (Miss Lamos), Sebastian (Mr Prowse) and a friendly dancing shark (Mr Holt) The students were introduced to the show and the concept of performing for an audience. The show will open in September, so keep an eye out for tickets to be released during Term 3.

This show involves the entire student cohort, with each year level performing one of the musical numbers with our lead cast of Year 5 and 6 Students. The process of learning, rehearsing, and performing each number forms a key part of the performing arts curriculum outcomes.

All Year 5 and 6 Students can audition to be part of the lead cast in the show. With a wide range of characters that require different performance abilities, there is a character that could suit them. If a student would like to audition, please see Mr Holt for an audition script and permission form in preparation for auditions to commence very soon in Week 7. The permission form will highlight the weekly rehearsal schedule and commitment needed to make this show the best it can be for the enjoyment of students and audience alike.

Choosing this musical also allows us to explain key elements of our Christian faith and the Gospel message to students. Ariel, The Little Mermaid, tells a story of young princess who desires to be part of the human world. King Trident, who is Ariel’s father opposes her idea to explore the human world. In order to get what she wants, Ursula, the sea witch, tricks Ariel into giving up her voice so she can be part of the human world. Ultimately, King Trident steps in and endures the punishment in Ariel’s place. The story draws parallels to the Gospel. How we are like Ariel and wanting to be part of the world and being tempted by the devil (Ursula) and falling into his lies. God (King Trident) sends his Son, Jesus, (Also King Trident) into the world to die the death we deserve. Jesus then rises from the grave to defeat death, just like King Trident banishing Ursula.

The musical team are looking forward to diving in fins first to help the students bring this show to life.

“Life under the sea is better than anything they have up there” – Sebastian.

Daniel Prowse, Musical Tech Director