November 7, 2023 — Grandview Middle School Theatre and Westonka Community Education is proud to present Disney’s “The Little Mermaid JR” on stage at the Westonka Performing Arts Center. The show features 72 middle school performers, with another 12 students working behind the scenes on the crew. Auditions were held in the second week of school and students have been rehearsing ever since.
In a magical kingdom fathoms below, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above. But first, she'll have to defy her father, King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, and convince Prince Eric that she's the girl with the enchanting voice. Adapted from Disney's 2008 Broadway production, Disney's “The Little Mermaid JR” features hit songs such as "Part of Your World," "She's in Love," and the Oscar®-winning "Under the Sea."
“This is more than a Disney musical- we hope that when you come to see this show you see the parallels of what it is like to be a middle schooler,” said director Mary Todd Kaercher. “Growing up is exciting, scary, uncomfortable and exhilarating - and this story showcases all the wonderful and scary things of growing up but with the classic and expected magic of a Disney story!”
Leading the production are:
Director: Mary Todd Kaercher
Assistant Director: Connor Houston
Vocal Director: Melissa Bray
Choreographer: Jamie Harms
Technical Director: Jamie Harms
Costumer: Mary Todd Kaercher
MWHS leaders include:
Assistant Vocal Director: Jack Hanson
Assistant Choreographer: Cerisa Bray
Stage Managers: Giana Meyer and Payton Waltz
Performances will be held November 16 and 17 at 7 p.m. and November 18 and 19 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $13 for adults, $9 for students and seniors, and free for children under 5. Tickets are available online only at www.westonkapac.com.
“The middle schoolers have been working like crazy to put together a truly magical and spectacular show for audiences of all ages,” said Harms. “They have been dancing, singing, and acting since early September and the talent will blow you away!”
Everyone in the community is invited to bring their families and support GMS Theatre and Westonka Community Ed.
