The Little Mermaid

A teenager has landed her dream stage role as the mermaid she idolised and met as a child.

Georgianna Forder will play Ariel in a youth musical production of The Little Mermaid at Sheringham Little Theatre from April 7-11.

It isthe first lead role for the 14-year-old from Aylsham – and she couldn’t be more delighted.

“When I was younger I loved Ariel in the Disney cartoon, and when we went to Walt Disney World in Florida nine years ago I met her. She kissed me and I refused to wash her lipstick off,” Georgianna said. “Back then I never thought I’d be her, so I’m really excited. The songs are so good and I’m looking forward to singing Part of Your World,” she added.

Georgianna has been with the Broadland School of Dance in her home town since the age of three, and has performed in high school shows. She appeared in two previous Little Theatre shows as an orphan in Annie and a dancer in the recent Wizard of Oz Panto.

A 40-strong cast, aged eight to 18, will perform the Little Mermaid Junior show, which charts Ariel’s adventures as she pursues her dream of leaving her undersea world in search of a handsome prince even though it means giving up her beautiful singing voice.

Theatre director Debbie Thompson said: “Little Mermaid is a favourite film of the children who are excited to be a part of it. “The cast also get a little book with acting tips and a glossary of theatre terms as well as the script, which is something really special for them. “And we know that youngsters in the audience love watching children on stage. It is inspirational, and some go on to get involved in future productions.”

Other key cast members are Alexis Pistorius as Flounder the fish, Taylor McKean as Prince Eric, Alfie Thomas as Sebastian the crab, Emma Indrulenaite as Scuttle the seagull, and Sophia Millington as Ursula the sea witch.

The show is being directed by Sheringham favourite Nick Earnshaw with Tom Withington doing choreography, Charlotte Joyce vocal coaching costumes by Jacqueline Rose Barker.

The Little Theatre has a strong tradition and reputation for youth work, with several of its talented young drama group members going on to become professional actors.

The next youth production will be a Halloween treat with The Addams Family from October 28-31.

Tickets and information at www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com or the box office on 01263 822347.  Performances 7.30 pm from 7th t0 11th April with a matinee on 11th April ar 2.30pm