‘The Little Mermaid’ makes waves with a fierce female cast at the Ordway

The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts in St. Paul has brought Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” to life with an unforgettable production, running through Dec. 29. This dazzling performance captivates audiences of all ages with its stunning visuals, stellar cast, and creative stagecraft.

From the moment the curtains rise, the audience is transported into Ariel’s underwater world. One of the most captivating scenes is “Under the Sea,” where bubbles appear, immersing everyone in the vibrant underwater kingdom. With its energetic choreography and lively colors, this number is an undeniable highlight.

The production’s inventive stagecraft is a marvel. Aerial sequences create a sense of weightless motion as characters “swim” through the water, while skateboards, wheeled shoes, and hoverboards add a playful touch to the scenes. These imaginative techniques give the performance a modern flair while staying true to the heart of the story.

What elevates the production most is the remarkable lighting design, especially evident in Ursula’s scenes. The lighting during her performance is bold and striking, with deep purples, ominous greens, and flashes of electric energy reflecting her larger-than-life presence and the danger she represents. Liz McCartney’s powerful portrayal of Ursula is amplified by this dramatic lighting, turning numbers like “Poor Unfortunate Souls” into unforgettable, show-stopping moments.

The cast, led by an impressive ensemble of women, shines in this production.

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Leianna Weaver’s portrayal of Ariel captures the courage and curiosity of the beloved mermaid, and her heartfelt performance takes the audience on an emotional journey. McCartney, as Ursula, commands the stage with powerhouse vocals and devilish charisma, making the sea witch both intimidating and entertaining to watch. The Mersisters, with their stunning costumes and gorgeous harmonies, bring elegance and energy to every scene they appear in. Together, these women showcase the strength and talent that drive the production forward.

It’s not just the leads who shine – side characters add humor, warmth, and heart.

Kevin Kulp brings youthful exuberance to Flounder, Ariel’s loyal companion, capturing hearts with his innocence and devotion. Quintan Craig delivers a standout performance as Scuttle, the eccentric seagull, earning some of the evening’s biggest laughs with his misinterpretations of human artifacts. Dana Orange portrays Sebastian with wit and energy, charming the audience with comedic timing and show-stopping renditions of “Kiss the Girl” and “Under the Sea.”

The magic of “The Little Mermaid” extended beyond the stage and into the Ordway’s vibrant lobby. The space buzzed with excitement as guests mingled beneath twinkling lights and holiday decor. A backdrop was available for photo opportunities, offering attendees a perfect keepsake. Adding to the enchantment, a live pianist provided a beautiful soundtrack, inspiring a young girl in a mermaid-inspired dress to twirl and dance – a touching reminder of how this production sparks joy and imagination.

Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at the Ordway is a must-see event this holiday season. With lighting that breathes life into every scene, inventive staging, and stellar performances led by talented women, this production brims with energy, heart, and unforgettable moments.

Dive into the enchantment before it swims away – this is one adventure you don’t want to miss!

Editor’s note: This is the latest installment of Rachel’s Reviews, where Rachel Engstrom, a contributor to Eden Prairie Local News (EPLN), reviews various aspects of Eden Prairie and beyond. Do you have ideas for reviews? Reach out to Rachel Engstrom at rachel.engstrom@eplocalnews.org.