I love so many elements of this show, one of which is its many universal elements. Some may have encountered this story from the original Hans Christian Andersen tale or the animated classic created by Disney. The stage adaptation of the story–with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and book by Doug Wright–retains the most beloved songs and moments from the original film while deepening the core relationships and themes, adding in layers that form an even more moving and relevant story: a young man and woman struggling to understand their place within their families while also trying to pursue their own dreams; it’s about breaking down barriers of those who fear and misunderstand each other, of taking risks and facing evil with bravery and dignity. I particularly appreciate the way King Triton and his relationship with Ariel is developed in the stage version–as well as Prince Eric’s connection to his guardian, Grimsby. I think those moments will resonate with all parents who have endured perhaps the hardest parenting step ever–letting go. And then, of course there is the thrilling music–the delightful dancing–the colorful costumes–the lights and moving imagery–all the spectacular elements that elevate a good story to a remarkable, memorable experience.

As a director, I always appreciate scripts which offer variety, and this show has it all. From the melodrama of good vs evil to the mixing of comedy with drama, to the combination of parental and romantic love, even sprinkling in the squabbles of the siblings and the loyalties of true friends. Each rehearsal finds me in a completely different place depending on the scene we’re practicing. I love staging the sea witch, Ursula and her evil eels as much as I enjoy working with the strength of the sailors or the teasing of the sisters or the adoring love of Flounder and the zaniness of Scuttle–it’s always a new space! And quite honestly, it’s fun. I’ve always found that when performers are having fun–audience members vicariously join in. I find myself pausing at times to simply savor the moments when I hear the laughter of our students echoing in the rehearsal spaces of Decker Auditorium. It’s like we missed out on a year of that laughter–and it’s all the sweeter now for its return.

Plus, imagining that we’re in the warm waters of the ocean or in a lovely castle by the sea is a perfect way to endure the stranglehold that winter can have on Iowa from January through February. So–what better way is there to spend an evening than with us as we bid winter adieu in early March?

Iowa Central’s professional team continues to bring a wealth of experience and depth to guide our students. I continue at the helm of the show’s direction–in fact, this marks my 25th musical at Iowa Central. I’m a huge fan of my fellow directors here–Will Lopes on vocals and Paul Bloomquist on the band side. And, as always, I treasure working with our hometown choreographer extraordinaire, Emily Eastwood. Our technical team is headed by Ashley Garst as Technical Theatre Coordinator as she designs lights, costumes and prop design and also works closely with the volunteer set design and construction lead of my husband, Joseph Jackson. Scott Deuel rounds out our team on the set build as does Paul Bloomquist who joins us after pit practice. We mourn the loss of our beloved Andy Anderson on sound design, but gratefully welcome his business partners, Mike and Rachelle Weideman, who have graciously filled that void for us.

The Little Mermaid opens March 2 with a 9:00 a.m. matinee for school children and retirement communities. Then, we follow with 7:00 p.m. evening performances on March 3-5 in Decker Auditorium. Tickets are on sale now through the Iowa Central Bookstore. Patrons can either order online, stop by campus or call 515-574-1081. We are requesting that all who pre-order tickets to be held at the door arrive at least 10 minutes prior to show time. Once we begin the pre-show announcements at 7:00, any unclaimed tickets will be distributed to those waiting for seats. Cost for adults remains $15 and students $5 with Iowa Central students attending for free.