Before you judge someone, walk a mile in their shoes. This expression of empathy is at the heart of the timeless tale of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Ariel trades her talented voice, a gift from her mother, for the opportunity to become a human and become ‘part of their world.’ To be clear, she doesn’t judge the humans. Rather, it is her father who must learn the lesson vicariously through his daughter’s journey, reserving judgment and replacing it with empathy.
This production, by Pan Academies of Creative Arts (PACA), weaves this thematic concept throughout their show. They are bolstered by their cast of all ages and backgrounds who are exploring, learning, and growing with the show as it progresses.
The vibrance, energy and enthusiasm of the cast and crew radiate off the stage from the moment Ariel first ‘swims’ on. The brisk pace, eccentric dancing and lively laughter remain constant from beginning to end. Director Rodrigo Medina Noel and Musical Director William Pulley collaboratively create a bustling show that holds reverence for the original whilst having a few curve-ball choices that make it their own.
The greatest choice they made, however, was in selecting their cast, all of whom give stellar performances. These up-and-coming talents are rising stars in the musical theatre scene. As Ariel, Faith Sherwood has a lightness, a joy, a playfulness, and a sincerity, which all come out in her beautifully expressive voice and magically realistic movements.
Sherwood’s rendition of ‘Part of Your World’ is a true inspiration to young girls everywhere of what they can aspire to do and be. Her melodic runs and impassioned high notes are particularly enthralling. They send a collective shiver down the spines of the audience as they recognise an iconic performance unfolding before their eyes.
As Prince Eric, Cameron Mayhew matches his romantic counterpart with his loving intensity and longing. In his performance of ‘Her Voice,’ it was clear he gave 100%. As we theatre folk like to say, he ‘left it all on the stage.’
As Sebastian, Andrew Read’s performance of ‘Under the Sea’ is equally as bombastic and charming as the original. Similarly, as Ursula, Jordan Berry’s ‘Poor Unfortunate Souls’ is just as captivating and entrancing.
As Scuttle, Alexander Billett adds a generous dose of happy tapping to the show, particularly in his Act Two opener ‘Positivity.’ Jemima Dredge is utterly adorable as Flounder, especially in portraying her unrequited love and adoration for Ariel.
Praiseworthy moments also include Mercurius Yousif as the scene-stealing Chef Louis. His chase after Sebastian is side-splittingly hilarious! The delicately handled quartet ‘If Only’ is another highlight, featuring Ariel, Prince Eric, Sebastian and King Triton, played by Simon Buchner.
Choreographer Kaitlin Hillier’s work shines in the big ensemble numbers. But her best work comes in the ballroom dance scene between Prince Eric and Ariel. Neither say a word but they communicate every thought to each other and the audience, nonetheless.
PACA’s production of The Little Mermaid will have you wanting to follow your heart and take on the world. A family-friendly show with a wonderful message about acceptance, presented by a company giving a voice to young talented performers. What more could you ask for?
Disney’s The Little Mermaid is playing from 21 -30 March at The Concourse Theatre, 409 Victoria Avenue Chatswood 2067.
Tickets are on sale now!
Website: https://paca.sydney/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/panacademies/
Photo credits: Grant Leslie Photography
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