DESIGN
URSULA’S LAIR Ursula’s domain should be the antithesis of King Triton’s court. The dark and ominous atmosphere can be created largely via a change in lighting to deep blues, purples, and greens. If your Sea Witch costume doesn’t include a moveable unit, give her a throne of her own. Instead of, or in addition to, a shell, take inspiration from her octopod shape with a more primitive design and a tentacle-like backing.
ARIEL’S GROTTO For Ariel’s underwater sanctuary, build a simple unit – or adapt one of your sandbar pieces – with a series of hinged shelves displaying human trinkets that can fall when King Triton destroys the grotto. Dress the grotto with some marine life such as coral and algae in addition to her human trinkets and the bust of Prince Eric (for prop tips, see p. 25).
Ursula’s Lair Green Valley High School; Henderson, NV
THE PALACE We never see the palace itself, only specific rooms within, so there’s no need to construct an elaborate edifice. Keep it simple, continuing to utilize your warm-toned cyc (or use a generic palace backdrop), and differentiate the rooms with one or two units that can be moved easily on and off stage.
Ariel’s Grotto Bradford High School; Kenosha, WI
ARIEL’S CHAMBERS In her chambers, Ariel is scrubbed clean by the maids. Rather than constructing or purchasing an old-fashioned claw-foot bathtub, create a simple façade that Ariel can sit behind. For added effect, create bubbles from bubble wrap or iridescent basket filler (which shines like real soap bubbles) with fake pearls or clear ornaments scattered throughout. You will also need a bed for Ariel during “If Only.”
Ariel’s Chambers Bradford High School; Kenosha, WI
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Disney’s The Little Mermaid Production Handbook