Disney The Little Mermaid Jr

Music by Alan Menken. Lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater. Book by Doug Wright. St James’ Anglican School. Directed by David Johnson. Allan Shaw Centre, Peter Moyes Anglican Community School, Mindarie, WA. 8 May, 2021

St James’ Anglican School’s production of The Little Mermaid Jr played for just two performances on Saturday 8 May, in a borrowed venue. Playing at just an hour long, the capacity audiences were delighted by this sweet and uplifting musical that had audience members of all ages engaged - including some completely rapt toddlers.

A lovely-to-look-at production, simple but effective set pieces were brought to life with professionally produced projections. Costumes were dynamic and fun - with over 80 costumes co-ordinated and created by Jo Walden and Lydia McGiven, nicely helping to create a myriad of characters. 

Georgia Jansen was lovely in the title role, with a beautifully acted performance as Ariel. She worked well with Noah Monger as Prince Eric - a confident and charming prince.

Hayley Grigg was very convincing as Ursula. Unfortunately Hayley took a very heavy fall at the matinee curtain call, resulting in a serious injury and hospitalisation. Best wishes from Stage Whispers for a speedy recovery and our sympathies that you did not get to complete the run. Tamzin Gair, who with Katie Steward played Jetsam and Flotsam very nicely at the matinee, stepped up to play Ursula at the final performance, and I am told she did not miss a beat.

This production featured some wonderful characterisations as Ariel’s companions. Ryder Kereopa was a larger-than-life Sebastian, and an audience favourite. Ebony Ridgeway was a very loveable Flounder, while Kate Morrisey brought lovely timing to Scuttle - and nicely led a team of gorgeous seagull tappers.

Leo Carchrie was a hardworking and earnest King Triton, caring for a beautiful bevy of daughters (Annabel Lucas, Ava Tomazin, Blythe Rajkowski, Daniella Paul, Alana Nolan and Rose McAnish - working well as a team). Luke Harding was a sincere Grimsby. Rohan Toomer was great fun as Chef Louis, with solid support from Hannah Bosch (Carlotta), Sasha Goodale (the Pilot) and Calvin Cremer (the Seahorse). The large ensemble were in character and focused at all times.

The student crew were especially impressive - with scene changes performed with amazing speed (literally at a run). There were also lovely performer crosses that enlivened these lightning scene changes - a great touch. Solid lighting and sound and friendly, efficient front of house staff enlivened this experience.

An ideal choice of show, well performed, with a lovely sense of community. Well done to all at St James.

Kimberley Shaw