Under The Sea with The Little Mermaid!

Yet through another discounted online purchasing, this time Ensogo, we were able to watch the first show of The Little Mermaid Manila by Atlantis productions. This is Jethro’s third musical this year.

Little Mermaid Manila was the first Asian production of the Broadway musical based on the beloved Disney Classic. With such songs like Part of your World, Under the Sea, this is definitely a sure fire hit and Atlantis productions didn’t disappoint us. The sets ranged from simple to extravagant. Under the Sea and Kiss the Girl filled the stage with colorful costumes and props. Shadow puppetry were utilized as well to show animated scenes. The costumes made a good illusion of the fins and tails while the actors walk around.

The cast were great led by Rachel Ann Go and Erik Santos but it was Jinky and OJ who I think stole the show played Ursula and Sebastian respectively. Other cast members like Calvin Millado (Triton), Lee Viloria (flounder) and Ikey Canoy (Scuttle). The ensemble was a collection of theater professionals and familiar faces. All their numbers were applauded loudly and done with such energy and presence. Being familiar to the material makes the musical more enjoyable. Even the songs that are not on the animated movie was catchy like Positoovity and She’s in Love.

The show ended with a standing ovation and they deserved it. This is the last production of Atlantis this year and I’m just glad I didn’t miss any one of them. They were all world class and excellent productions from Next to Normal, Aida, In the Heights and Little Mermaid. Can’t wait for next year for Rock of Ages, Nine, God of Carnage and Shrek the Musical.


PS. That night we saw Lea Salonga, Leo Valdez and Joanna Ampil watching the show. We’re fortunate to meet Joanna at the lobby and didn’t waste an opportunity to have our picture taken with her.