Where-To-Go Wednesday- Literally Alive Theater's Production of The Little Mermaid

What: The Little Mermaid

Where: Players Theater
            115 MacDougal Street
            New York, New York

Who: All Ages

Our view: If you are expecting the Disney version of the story, this is not it. In this version, the characters are different, the songs are different even the story is different. However, once you get past that, you will find this version of the story very enjoyable in its own right. The story while not as light as the Disney version is not as depressing as the original Hans Christian Anderson version either. The songs are sweet although not particularly memorable except a song called Misunderstood which is sung by the evil Fish Witch. Actually, while all of the acting is good, Eric Fletcher who plays the Fish Witch is definitely the standout performer of the show. His character is definitely not as scary evil  as Ursula in The Little Mermaid which is a good thing especially when you are dealing with small children and live theater. It also helps that if you arrive at the show an hour early, there is workshop. During the workshop, people associated with show talk about the show and ask questions and the audience gets to participate. Eric Fletcher participates in this session in regular street clothes and without makeup so the little ones can see he is just a regular person and not be afraid of him during the show. The musical director also talks about how music is used to make the sounds of the storm so kids aren't frightened by that during the show either. These tactics work because not one little kid was heard screaming in fright during the course of the show and all of the children in attendance seemed thoroughly engaged by the show. Also, as part of the workshop, children are invited to come on stage and create a sea creature of their own which they are even able to use to participate in the beginning of the show. All in all, the workshop and the show will both keep your children entertained and engaged. For more information about the The Little Mermaid and/or other Literally Alive Theater productions or to order tickets go to http://www.literallyalive.com/. If you are interested in seeing The Little Mermaid, go soon. It will only be running through April 27. We will share further information regarding future Literally Alive Theater productions as we receive it.

And that's our view. Tune in for tomorrow's Talking Topic post where we will be talking more about The Little Mermaid.