(Red Oak) — An undersea adventure awaits audiences in Red Oak later this month–but it’s actually indoors.
You’ll recognize “Under the Sea” from the famous Disney animated movie, “The Little Mermaid.” And, you’ll recognize some KMAland residents in the Wilson Performing Arts Center’s rendition of “The Little Mermaid” the next two weekends. Maddison Poling directs and choreographs the production, featuring 29 cast members. Poling tells KMA News it’s a show for all ages–with performers of all ages.
“‘The Little Mermaid’ is such a fun family musical,” said Poling. “So, I know every summer, they like to do something that includes both kids and adults in the cast, and something that the whole community can enjoy. And, this is definitely a show that everybody can find something in the show that they love.”
Recent Red Oak High School graduate Grace Goldapp portrays Ariel, the lead character. Goldapp says she has mixed emotions about her big role.
“It’s really exciting to play a role that I’ve looked up to ever since I was really little,” said Goldapp. “But, it’s also a little intimidating to sing songs everyone in the audience will be familiar with, and know the words to. So, it’s a mixture of nerves and excitement.”
And, being involved in “The Little Mermaid” is no day at the beach. Glenwood resident Connor Edick says playing Prince Eric presents its challenges.
“Memorizing lots of lines–especially when I’m talking to somebody that doesn’t have a voice,” said Edick. “What’s fun is in the musical, Prince Eric actually has songs that he sings, because he doesn’t have any songs in the movie.”
But Ryan Fuller, who plays Scuttle, says the cast’s talent has come to the surface during rehearsals–particularly the younger performers.
“One thing that I enjoy the most is watching the kids, and how they’re into it,” said Fuller. “I was watching rehearsals yesterday when I was sitting in the audience while they were doing the dance numbers. Just seeing the kids enjoy being up on stage, really getting into the different scenes that they’re in is really fun.”
Performances of “The Little Mermaid” take place at the Wilson Performing Arts Center in Red Oak June 13th, 14th, 20th and 21st at 7:30 p.m. and June 15th and 22nd at 2:30 p.m. For ticket reservations, call the Wilson box office at 712-623-3183 or go to wilsonartscenter.org.