Take yourself “under the sea” and experience a creative production of “Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR.” at Alburtis Elementary School April 11 and 12.

Under the direction of Alburtis teachers Francine Confer, Garrett Deppe, John Guignet and Oksana Keretz, approximately 45 students in fourth and fifth grades began rehearsing in November 2024 for this musical.

Confer manages the choreography, Deppe manages the stage, Keretz manages the music and Guignet serves as the main director. Other helpers include Paul Confer on microphones, Madelyn Weidenhammer on audio control, Kelly Ely in charge of ticket sales and Jill Schrader leading the set club.

Numerous volunteers assist with concessions, costumes, props/set, stage crew, in addition to a number of teachers volunteering to make this production a splash.

After the winter break, the students began practicing three days a week. More recently, they have been at school until 7 p.m. as opening night approaches. The production makes use of flashing lights and strobe light effects. Those with sensitivities should be aware.

“Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR.” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theater International. Well-known selections of “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea” and “She’s In Love” will delight the audiences.

Student Macie Schuler portrays the stubborn yet curious mermaid Ariel. Schuler’s ability to relate to the crowd while on stage makes her appear to be a seasoned actor; however, this is Schuler’s first time appearing on the stage. She said it would not be her last.

Student Rose Nevin captivates the audience as Ursula with her solo in “Poor Unfortunate Souls-Reprise.” Having portrayed Glinda the Good Witch in last year’s production, this is the first time Nevin is portraying a villain.

Student Payton Herring takes the claws of Sebastian and leads an orchestra of sea creatures throughout this production. Her ability to sing and dance engages the audience in this story. For the past six years, Herring has participated with the Emmaus High School’s AACC Dance Connection.

Student Aadya Uppiretla presents an endearing performance as Flounder. Her concern and support for Ariel is a genuine exchange between both actors.

King Triton is portrayed by student Bryce Hausman who has been a part of the Alburtis theater stage since he was a baby giving him more of a familiarity with the theater program.

This is student Blake Perez’s first break on the stage playing the role of Prince Eric. He decided to put his sports and video games aside to be a part of this incredible production and learn more about theater.

In addition to the leads, numerous other students display their talents through song and dance. You will find a variety of lagoon animals, a sea chorus and a group of sailors.

The scenery for this production is outstanding. Instructional assistants Ashley Trexler (whose son Corbin is in the musical) Melanie Penkauskas and parent volunteer Amber Barnes (whose daughter Kallie is in the musical) said the school received the sea scenery as a donation from a local church.

The volunteers repurposed the items for this production into the “sea” which is the length of the stage. The bright colors and various items allow the sea orchestra and lagoon animals to utilize this area and gives the illusion of being under water.

The cauldron used by Ursula commands the audience’s attention during her scenes while the sailors in the boat make you feel like you are on this voyage with them.

Take this journey with Ariel and the cast of aquatic friends as she searches for love and acceptance. The students, staff and volunteers have created a “magical, underwater kingdom” at Alburtis to display the talents of these children. Ariel “tests the waters” by defying her father’s wishes and loses her beautiful singing voice to the evil sea witch Ursula to have a chance to experience what it is like to be human. Ariel tries to convince Prince Eric it is her voice he finds enchanting.

This show is a must-see for parents who will be sending their fifth graders to middle school next year. Parents might relate the challenges of their children wanting to fit in with their peers and possibly defying them the way Ariel does to her father. Parents can utilize this storyline as an opportunity to talk with their children about the challenges of growing up. The valuable lessons of friendship are notable in this production and can be appreciated by the audience members of all ages.

A drawing contest was held for the production. Student and cast member Dragon Swenson (who portrays Chef Louie) was the winner. The drawing can be seen in the musical’s program. All submissions are included in the program in smaller versions.

Themed sweet treats such as candy shark bracelets, goldfish, pirate food, mermaid cake pops, mermaid tail lollipops, sea coral, Swedish Fish and Triton’s Treasure coins will be available for purchase during the 15-minute intermission.

The production will be held April 11 and 12 in the school’s gymnasium. Contact the school at 610-965-1633 for ticket information.