Theater Review: "Disney's The Little Mermaid" by City Youth Theatre

The Waterbury-based The City Youth Theater/City Stage Company presents a delightful production of “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” on the stage at Crosby High School in Waterbury. During their opening weekend, the students got to perform for family and friends who came out to enjoy the results of the hard work they had put into their show. Performances continue through Aug. 11.

The young performers worked very hard this summer under the direction of Olivia Carew, assisted by cast member Nick Bates, with music direction by Tigger Kluessendorf. Emily Lungarini served as the rehearsal pianist. Executive Director Shelby Davis acknowledges in the printed program the hard work, dedication and passion of the entire community, the cast, crew, volunteers and supporters. Carew echoes his gratitude to everyone involved in the rehearsal process from the ground up, and writes that she is “filled with countless cherished memories” of the journey.

The assistant director also served in the role of choreographer, designing the dance moves for all of the production numbers. Bates, a graduate of WAMS who heads to Wagner College in the fall, challenged the dancers, and they rose to the challenge under his careful guidance. Steffon Sampson, who is the vice president of the CYT/CSC Board of Directors, worked as the set builder of the simple but effective set, as well as the lighting designer.

The excellent orchestra is conducted by Kluessendorf, who graciously cues the singers. The conductor yielded his baton to Sebastian as he led the mersisters during “Daughters of Triton.” In the second act, there was a fun chase scene through the audience during “Les Poissons.” Sebastian grabbed the Kluessendorf from behind his music stand and dragged him along on the chase. (I am told that this was the conductor’s idea.) The rudderless musicians carried on beautifully with their playing until the music director returned to his post. It was clear that “we’ve got a live orchestra band.”

Emma Renaldi, a student at the Greater Hartford Academy Half-Day Program that has performed professionally, plays Ariel, the little mermaid. She sings the role beautifully and has a lovely stage presence.

Noah Gomez joined the cast later than his cast mates to play the role of Prince Eric. Gomez, a student at WAMS, gave a wonderful performance.

Isabella Peralta commands the stage in the role of Ursula, the sea witch, wearing a great costume. Jonathan Butler does double duty as King Triton and Chef Louis and does very well with both roles. Ethan Soto (Ernie is “Sister Act’) plays the prince’s guardian Grismby.

Hanah Cady almost steals the show with her portrayal of Flounder, traveling on the stage on heelys. She recently played the doctor in “Matilda.” Lily Ranquillo (“Igor’s Revenge” and more at Seven Angels) is a delight as the hilarious seagull Scuttle.

Rising Cosby High School junior Mercy Allen (Flotsam) and Jelia Norales (Jestam) slither about as Ursula’s hench eels.

The mersisters are played by a group of talented actresses. Dance captain Tianna Campbell Williams is Adella, Brooke Carew is Allana, Mikayla Labbe is the strong-headed Aquata, Pearl Sanchez is Atina, Esmerelda Reyes (a Bluette in “Pinocchio” at Seven Angels) is Atina,

Rotella Magnet School student Alisson Nunez plays Windward, the trumpet fish and Hope Labbe plays Leeward. In the ensemble are Nubia Walker, Aniyah Dickens (in her first show,) Doren Arabella Allen, six-year-old Marco Barone, eight-year-old Eryne Asare, and Wallace Middle School student Edmund Asare, Jr.

Josanny Guzman Lopez plays the ship's pilot. Featured dancers Faith Petteway, Jaide Nardini, and Tierra Dozier, all play sailors.

Costumes designed by Jessica Cass were colorful and age-appropriate, making the show a delight for the eyes as well as ears. Young patrons will love seeing this beloved tale brought to life by performers close to their age.

Next up will be “Soulful Sunday,” an open mic night on Aug. 25.

The not-for-profit CYT/CSC was founded in 2019 by Davis to foster the theatrical talents of all participants. “Little Mermaid” is presented with one 15-minute intermission. Remaining performances are Fri. Aug 9 at 7:00 pm, Sat. Aug 10 at 7:00 pm and Sun. Aug 11 at 2:00 pm. Tickets at https://www.onthestage.tickets/.../662ba20e1e14010e450727fb