Disney’s The Little Mermaid – The Argyle Theatre – Theatre Review

By Kristen Weyer.

“Life is the bubbles!” over at The Argyle Theatre with their newest production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid.  With a book by Doug Wright, music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, the stage version of this classic story is based on the Hans Christian Andersen tale and, naturally, the Disney film of the same name.  Directed and choreographed here by Tara Jeanne Vallee with associate direction and choreography by Danielle Sue Jordan, The Argyle’s production of The Little Mermaid is a favorite fantasy brought to life before your eyes.

I won’t bore you with summarizing a plot that is familiar to all except those who have been living “under the sea”. That being said, it isn’t a carbon copy of its movie predecessor, but it’s pretty darn close. Ignoring the obvious difficulties in transforming an animated movie into a live performance, some things just don’t translate from film to stage. Don’t worry though, all of your favorite characters are there, as well as the songs, plus a whole bunch more, adding complexity and depth of emotion.

So what’s different? Well, for starters, Flounder is in love with Ariel, her sisters are around much more than in the movie, and oh yes, Ursula is King Triton’s sister.  Now while die-hard fans of the film may currently be shouting “Wait what?!” at their screens, let me explain what this change does.  In this production Ursula is evil, and no, I am not forgetting what she was like in the movie.  She was crafty, conniving and cruel with a disturbing penchant for transfiguring mer-people into additions for her worm garden.  However, in this production she is most accurately described as a homicidal maniac; there will be no final happy wave of Triton’s trident to restore her victims, they were taken care of more…permanently.  Parents, don’t worry too much though, this is still Disney and the explanation of her past activities (like most of their villains) is taken care of in fun and cheeky song. The full implication of her actions is left to those of us more adept at catching those tendrils of lyrics that mostly float over the younger ones’ heads. As mentioned just before, not everything can translate from film to stage, and the final epic battle with a gargantuan Ursula on the stormy high seas is one of them; but they’ve given you a few more reasons to hate her, so while her demise may be tamer than growing to the size of Godzilla and getting run through by a ship, it’s no less satisfying to see her go.

Other than that, it’s surprisingly similar and fabulous.  Flowing backdrops, gorgeous costumes, and an incredible cast combine to transport us directly into this magical tale. Kimberly Immanuel’s beautiful vocals and charming persona are perfect for Ariel, and she has a nice chemistry with Jeff Sullivan as Prince Eric.  Sullivan’s clear and strong voice is a pleasure to listen to and the new scene and song of “One Step Closer” is a nice addition to their relationship development.  Warren Nolan Jr. is excellent as King Triton, commanding the stage with presence and heart.  Ryan Gregory Thurman stuns as Sebastian with fabulous vocals and characterization; he’s everything you’re hoping he will be and his performance of “Under the Sea” will not disappoint.  Matthew Rafanelli is charming and funny as Flounder, and Michael Valvo squawks and flaps his amusing way around the stage as Scuttle. Flotsam and Jetsam are played to creepy perfection by Conor Stepnowski and Derek Kastner, while J. Ryan Carroll impresses and entertains as Grimsby.  Ursula is portrayed to evil perfection by Courtney Balan, her performance of “Poor Unfortunate Souls” is fabulous.

With a great set from Front Row Theatrical, dazzling costumes by Kurt Alger, and a magnificent musical performance from conductor Jonathan Brenner and the entire orchestra, all the aspects of this show combined together to wonderful effect.  The seaweed is definitely greener over in Babylon so get yourself over to the Argyle and don’t miss Disney’s The Little Mermaid. 

Running Time: Approximately 2 ½ hours with one 15 minute intermission.

Note: As this is a mainstage production and not a children’s production the characters do not come out after the show for a meet and greet.  It might be helpful to prepare for this in advance as more than one little princess lover was disappointed at the performance I attended.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid is playing at The Argyle Theatre until February 23^rd.  The theatre is located at 34 W. Main Street, Babylon NY.  For tickets contact the box office at 844-631-5483 or click here.