A Splashy Start to Summer
In May 2025, World Upside Down Arts Studio transported audiences under the sea with their delightful rendition of The Little Mermaid Jr. Held at the Simpsonville Arts Center, this youth production showcased the talents of young performers aged 5 to 17, bringing to life the beloved tale of Ariel’s adventures with energy and charm.
Show Dates and Synopsis
May 3, 9, 10 | $15/person
Simpsonville Arts Center
110 Academy St, Simpsonville, SC 29681
Based on Disney’s beloved animated film and the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale, The Little Mermaid Jr. is a youth-friendly stage adaptation that follows the magical journey of Ariel, a curious and adventurous young mermaid who dreams of living in the world above the sea.
Tired of life under the ocean, Ariel longs to experience life on land and falls in love with the human Prince Eric after rescuing him during a storm. Defying her father King Triton and the warnings of her loyal friends Sebastian and Flounder, Ariel makes a dangerous deal with the sea witch Ursula — trading her voice for human legs.
As Ariel navigates life on land, she must win Eric’s heart without speaking — and do it before the sun sets on the third day, or lose her soul to Ursula forever. With the help of her sea friends and some catchy musical numbers like “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” and “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” Ariel discovers the strength to follow her heart and find her place in both worlds.
TLM_Playbill by wudhub
Captivating Performances and Direction
The young cast delivered spirited performances, embodying characters like Ariel, Prince Eric, Sebastian, and Ursula with enthusiasm and skill. Their portrayals were both engaging and heartfelt, reflecting the dedication and guidance of the studio’s creative team.
The direction ensured a seamless flow of scenes, with choreography that was both lively and appropriate for the age group. The musical numbers, including favorites like “Part of Your World” and “Under the Sea,” were performed with gusto, eliciting smiles and applause from the audience.
TLM_Opener by wudhub
Imaginative Costumes and Set Design
A standout aspect of the production was its creative use of costumes and set pieces. The colorful attire and inventive props effectively depicted the underwater world and its inhabitants, enhancing the storytelling and immersing the audience in Ariel’s journey.
The set design, though modest, was thoughtfully arranged to suggest various locales—from King Triton’s palace to the ocean surface—allowing for smooth transitions and maintaining the audience’s engagement throughout the performance.
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“Meet the Cast”: Fostering Community Connections
Two weeks before the performances, World Upside Down hosted a “Meet the Cast” event, providing an opportunity for attendees to interact with the young actors. Families and friends were invited to take photos, ask questions, and share in the excitement of the production.
This event not only celebrated the hard work of the performers but also reinforced the studio’s commitment to community involvement and the importance of supporting youth in the arts.
A Mission-Driven Production: Theater for All
What makes World Upside Down unique is its unwavering commitment to accessibility and community. Through their Gift-A-Ticket initiative, the organization provided free tickets to children in foster care, neurodivergent kids, and families with limited resources, ensuring that everyone had a chance to experience the magic of live theater.
This mission-driven approach, combined with high-quality arts education and performance opportunities, sets World Upside Down apart as a leading force in youth arts programming in South Carolina.
A Testament to Youth Theater
World Upside Down’s The Little Mermaid Jr. was more than a musical; it was a celebration of young talent, creativity, and the power of storytelling. The production offered a platform for children to express themselves artistically while engaging the community in a shared cultural experience.
As the final curtain fell, it was clear that the studio’s dedication to nurturing young performers and fostering a love for the arts had made a lasting impact on both the participants and the audience.
Want to get involved or support World Upside Down? Visit worldupsidedown.org to learn more about upcoming events, performances, and arts-integrated programs.
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