"Disney's Little Mermaid Jr."

Apple Tree Arts presents Disney’s enchanting “Little Mermaid Jr." The junior version of the classic Walt Disney tale, “The Little Mermaid” was recently released for community productions. The show is about Ariel, a beautiful young mermaid who longs to be part of the human world. Before she achieves her wish, she must defy her father King Triton, make a risky deal with the evil sea witch Ursula and convince Prince Eric she’s the girl with the lovely voice. 

The 21 cast members from Grafton, Shrewsbury, Uxbridge and Northbridge began rehearsing in mid-October. 

The production has several notable characters. Ariel is the  mermaid with a mesmerizing voice, who is played by Amelia Murray of Grafton and Abby Brann of Shrewsbury. Prince Eric, Ariel’s love interest is played by Daniel Murphy of Grafton. King Triton is played by Abby Rogers of Grafton. Sebastian the crab, the king’s confidante is played by Alyssa Luber of Grafton and Amanda Frost of Shrewsbury. Ursula, the evil sea witch is played by CC Frederickson of Uxbridge and Allie Benbenek of Shrewsbury. Flounder, Ariel’s best friend, is portrayed by Delanie Burke of Grafton and Katelyn Benbenek of Shrewsbury. Scuttle, the know-it-all sea gull is played by Emma Brann of Shrewsbury.

"The songs people love the most from the show are some of my favorites – "Under the Sea," "Part of Your World," and "Kiss the Girl" explained Lisa Scarlett, theatre arts director of the community arts school. Working with Laurie Baker as a co-director, Ms. Scarlett focused on the choreography and acting while Ms. Baker concentrated on the music. Ms. Baker is a longtime theatre arts and early childhood music faculty member of Apple Tree Arts. The duo have co-directed many musicals including the popular shows,"The Beauty and the Beast," "Flat Stanley"and "Cinderella."

Parent volunteers helped with the production in many ways. Special effects were created by Ron Burke. Several costumes were made by Ann Morgan and Helen Russell. Darrel Baker managed the sound system. Parents also created the show's marquee, assisted with make-up, coordinated refreshments and helped promote the show.

 Apple Tree Arts is a community arts school located in Grafton. Founded in 1989, the nonprofit 501 (c) 3 organization has grown to serve over 1,000 children and adults annually with early childhood music classes, group keyboard lessons, private music and voice instruction, ensembles, theatre arts programs and concerts.  For more information, visit www.appletreearts.org.