This fall, a new iteration of The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will be coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This brand new show reimagines the Disney animated classic The Little Mermaid with all-new physical sets, cast of puppets, live performers, and stunning visuals.
“We thought about what Ariel’s room may look like and came up with this collage style that you’ll see woven throughout the production,” said Sarah Schmidt, Creative Concept Artist & Illustrator for Disney Live Entertainment. “This new look really informed every design decision – from scenic, to the puppets, even the custom digital content being created for the show.”
The who will utilize multiple storytelling devices to bring things to life. This will include a blend of both practical and projected scenic design. Both physical and digital puppetry will be utilized as well. The creative team is pairing both classic puppetry methods (including the backlight puppets that are returning) along with some new state-of-the-art technology.
“We’re using some really cutting-edge tools like motion capture technology, which you may have seen used in blockbuster films,” said James Silson, Show Director. “Basically, we have a live performer in a suit covered in sensors, and the data captured from their performance helps us create a digital animation of the character, which our animators then use to bring them to life on stage.”
This new technology using digital imagery will be found throughout the show to accent what is happening on stage. This will bring character to life like King Triton, Ursula, and also Ariel’s sisters. The sisters will help kick the production off with a new Daughters of Triton number.
Concept art for the show was also revealed, giving a look at what guests will experience when they enter the theater this fall. One piece shows King Triton about to rid Ariel of her collection of human treasures forever. The other is a moment from Kiss the Girl it appears.
“We’re really blending the line between real and digital in ways we’ve never done before to completely fill the stage for these show-stopping scenes,” said James. “You’re going to see these large new physical set pieces we’ve created blend seamlessly with a digital environment in a way that really fills the stage. You’ll see digital puppets transform into real ones right before your eyes. You’ll even see animated characters performing in the same space as real actors. It’s going to feel like magic!”
The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure currently doesn’t have an exact opening date. It is just known that it will be opening this fall at Walt Disney World in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. What do you think of what you are seeing so far regarding this show? Are you excited to experience it when it opens? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
