El Dorado Musical Theatre presents "Disney's The Little Mermaid"

March 1-10 Harris Center for the Arts Tickets: $15-$45 Harriscenter.net or 916-608-6888 PERFORMANCE DATES AND TIMES Friday, March 1 at 7 p.m. (Coral Cast) Saturday, March 2 at 2 p.m. (Coral Cast) and 7 p.m. (Kelp Cast) Sunday, March 3 at 2 p.m. (Kelp Cast) and 6 p.m. (Bargain Night – Kelp Cast) Thursday, March 7 at 7 p.m. (Bargain Night – Coral Cast) Friday, March 8 at 7 p.m. (Kelp Cast) Saturday, March 9 at 2 p.m. (Coral Cast) and 7 p.m. (Coral Cast) Sunday, March 10 at 2 p.m. (Kelp Cast) El Dorado Musical Theatre (EDMT) is set to present "Disney's The Little Mermaid" and it will have you flying out of your seat. Running March 1-10 at the Harris Center for the Arts, this production is the full version of "The Little Mermaid," not the junior version. Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic animated film, "Disney's The Little Mermaid" is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, including "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl" and "Part of Your World." Ariel, King Triton's youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull, and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea. Artistic Director Debbie Wilson said this production will be giant; though that's not a surprise given EDMT's record. "This show will be technologically significant. There is flying, special effects, moments going from under the water to top of the water – it's a big darn deal." Wilson said. "For example, there will be a scene of guys on the ship on top of the water. Then the ship has to fly up so we can go under the water. It's pretty crazy." Wilson always takes her shows above and beyond the last. With this production, numerous cast members will have wheels on their shoes to give off the effect of swimming. "They have had to learn to move around on them, and do choreography without running into one another," she said. "It's a very tough show, but it's also very exciting and we're working hard on all of it." Nittany Biggs will play as one of the production's Ariels in the Kept Cast. "Ariel is the protagonist of The Little Mermaid. This musical was adapted from Disney's movie, but at her core, Ariel remains the same relatable teenager in both versions. She is genuine and sweet, yet still adventurous and headstrong," Biggs said. "Ariel was the first Disney princess allowed to pursue her passion and make her own mistakes. She learns and grows from her decisions and refuses to quit fighting for what she wants. Biggs said she is more familiar with the original cartoon of "The Little Mermaid," and she is looking forward to bringing her character alive on stage. "I think I'm most excited to bring her to life onstage and know that there is a whole crowd of kids and adults that relate to this sincere girl who is finding her way in the world," she said. "For me, every part of putting on a show is incredible. This show, I've really anticipated seeing the completed technical part of things – the finished costumes, sets, props, special effects – all of which I know will be astounding." Jocelyn Haney will play one of the production's Ursulas, and she is looking forward to seeing all of the costumes. "Ursula has so many amazing songs in this show. I'm most excited to sing my heart out through her manipulative personality," Haney said. "I'm looking forward to seeing all the incredible costumes. It's an addition that makes each individual character in the cast come to life." Wilson mentioned this production might be her most elaborate yet. "I don't think I have seen this show done with this amount of people this elaborately. I think there's about 272 costumes; not pieces, but costumes," she said. "On any given afternoon, you could walk into the costume shop, and it's like Santa's Workshop. It's thrilling." Biggs said guests can expect to have non-stop entertainment. "Something is sure to captivate your attention between the acting, singing, dances, costumes, scenery and special effects. There isn't a dull moment," Biggs said. "I love the way this show explores the depths of belonging, home, and true love. There is something relatable and something to love in every single character. It's all brought to light in a very fun and engaging way." Haney said guests can expect great vocals and choreography. "Everyone should expect to experience brilliant vocals and choreography, brightly colored creatures, and a lot of magic," she said. "I hope everyone has so much fun while experiencing this show. The cast has put so much hard work and dedication. I know I can speak for everyone in the cast when I say that we can't wait to share the magic of The Little Mermaid." Wilson said she is looking forward to seeing the whole show come together. "Even though we have only done it in the rehearsal hall so far, our cast is truly amazing vocally. The stage will be full of all different beautiful fish, people flying. It should just be a gigantic spectacle," Wilson said. "It's a very heartfelt show, about a father and daughter doing what they need to do." For more information, go to edmt.info.