On Thursday, April 24 at 7 PM, in the Kolze Auditorium, Fremd Theater will present The Little Mermaid. This will be the first of four performances, with the following three taking place on Friday, April 25 at 7 PM, Saturday, April 26 and 1 PM, and Saturday, April 26 at 7 PM.
The Little Mermaid follows the story of mermaid Ariel and her alienation from both her underwater and human home as she falls in love with a human prince. Preparation for this musical started back in February when casting began.
“We had an audition clinic where we learned some different songs and the dance combo that we were going to be auditioning,” freshman Jessica Cygan said. “I went home and practiced that, and two days after, we chose a time to go in and perform whatever song we chose and the dance. A few days later, I found out that I would be in a couple different ensembles, as well as one of the main tap dancing seagulls.”
Actors and actresses in the production often make up much of what the audience sees during the performance. However, there is so much more going on behind the scenes to ensure smooth performances. From designing sets to managing lights, technical crews are the backbone of all productions.
Freshman Kayla Hsu explains her job as a member of the props team.
“We create and manage all the props that you see on stage,” Hsu said. That pen you see from afar could be an actual pen, or it could be a skewer stick glued to a piece of clay and painted.”
Set/run crew member Aleeza Hussain works with all things set related.
“We built almost all the set pieces, and we’re also the ones moving them on stage.” Hussain said.
For over two months now, members of the production have been hard at work preparing to perform.
“I’m making sure I have all the scenes and props I have to take care of memorized,” Hsu said. I’m also constantly checking things to make sure nothing’s broken. The actors really like to throw things for some reason, but you didn’t hear that from me.”
Preparations for actors look a little different. Chaya Navaneetham, who plays Chef Louis, explains how she’s getting ready.
“I make sure to get lots of sleep and practice [my part] over and over again,” Navaneetham said. “A lot of work is being put into this production. We’ve been meeting everyday from 3-6, and now that it’s tech week, we meet from 3-8. We even meet on Saturdays, too.”
Although rehearsal hours are long, many members of the production find it incredibly worth it. For Navaneetham, it’s being able to get out there and perform.
“I enjoy being on the stage and performing, and hearing people laugh.” Navaneetham said.
Cygan enjoys the busyness of rehearsals.
“Rehearsals don’t feel that long.” Cygan said. “You’re running scenes, mapping out your spots on the stage, and there’s just a lot going on, so rehearsals usually go by pretty fast.”
But what many production members agree upon is that the best part about being in the musical is the people.
“My favorite part about being in The Little Mermaid is being with the people I love most.” Navaneetham said.
Hussain also finds happiness through her fellow production members.
“The people are definitely what makes being in the musical enjoyable,” Hussain said. I’ve made so many friends in theater, and it’s a great environment.”
As opening night nears, Fremd Theater invites all to come out and enjoy the musical.
“We all put a lot of effort into this, and it’d be nice for everyone to see the fruits of our labor,” Hsu said. “The Little Mermaid is timeless, and even if you don’t particularly love musicals, it’s a story that everyone can get behind and remember.”
