Bringing The Little Mermaid to life on stage is an exciting challenge that requires careful planning and creativity. As thrilling as it is to watch it all unfold, what goes into making it happen, and how is production managed? At Athens Drive, Ashlynn Hayes, director of the Athens Drive Theater Department, shares her teachings and how she directs a crew.

“My personal style of directing is much more collaborative than others that work in this industry. Since this is an educational setting, I think that learning is paramount, so I try to allow students to have the ability to help create the vision through character analysis and design,” said Hayes.

Hayes’ collaborative approach not only enhances their theatrical experience but also empowers actors to take ownership of their roles. This hands-on involvement helps keep the production well-organized, as each student plays a part in shaping the vision and contributing to the success of the musical.

“I try to give the technical crew students lots of freedom before we go into production to design the set and lights. I am pretty passionate about costumes and generally design the overall look of the show myself, and have students in the costuming department help organize. I always encourage cast members to do their homework by way of character analysis. This prompts more motivated vocal elements and movement,” said Hayes.

The Little Mermaid musical is a unique and exciting production at Athens Drive. The program gives students the freedom and final approval, allowing them to bring their creative ideas to the stage and give the musical a fresh feel. Hayes encourages cast members to dig deep into their characters, which brings out more authentic performances.

“The ocean is a huge part of The Little Mermaid. There are lots of fun nods to being underwater. A big way we portray underwater scenes is through the use of special lighting effects. Our unit set is simple, but the look changes under different colored lights. Our costumes and choreography also aid in portraying the juxtaposition between the land and sea,” said Hayes.

Having that “underwater magic” plays a very crucial role in the Little Mermaid musical. Hayes has to ensure all staff and crew are playing their part and following orders carefully to make this setting come to life. Organizing all departments to work together creates a collaborative environment that boosts overall production.

Enzo Moscatello played the role of Ursula, the musical’s sea witch villain.

“Just sort of tapping into that villainous yet kind of funny, sassy and sarcastic kind of role has been really fun for me,” said Moscatello.
Moscatello is able to grow as an actor, enjoying their role, and expressing this enjoyment brings the audience a better experience.

“Everyone was very supportive and helpful, we all love theatre, and we all want to make musicals as wonderful an experience as it can be,” Said Nora Miller, sophomore who played a part of the Little Mermaid ensemble and an Actress.

The spirit of shared passion and community is exactly what makes bringing a production like The Little Mermaid to life so special. Led by Ashlyn Hayes, the team at Athens Drive focuses on the importance of planning, creativity, and each individual’s contribution to the production. The theatre department works together to ensure all details contribute to creating a remarkable experience for both the cast and the audience.

Photo credits: Sama Yousef