ANC's Production of "The Little Mermaid" Receives Multiple Nominations

ariel performing on stage
ANC's Production of "The Little Mermaid" Receives Multiple Nominations

Over the last two weekends in April, ANC performed “The Little Mermaid '' for over 1400 patrons at 6 shows at the Mitchell Performing Arts Center. Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney's “The Little Mermaid” is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages, with irresistible songs, including "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl" and "Part of Your World."

This was the first live musical performed at MPAC since the pandemic began, and ANC’s first live musical since “Annie” in December of 2019. While there were challenges producing a large show while still under COVID protocols, students were able to work together, step up to fill in the inevitable gaps and overcome obstacles along the way. 44 students were in the cast, 20 students were in the crew, and another 20 participated through the StageCraft and Costuming classes. 

23 Cappies critics attended the first weekend and wrote positive reviews [read them here]. The production received 8 nominations, including Outstanding 11th grade critic (Meg M), Special Effect (Stage Crew), Makeup (Audrey S & Cast), Costumes (Costuming Class), Sets (StageCraft Class), Featured Actress in a Musical (Ainsley O), Supporting Actor in a Musical (Chris F) and Lead Actress in a Musical (Anya D). Winners will be announced at the Cappies Gala at Upper Darby High School on May 15th.

ANC once again was a part of the Philadelphia Independence Awards. Theater Professionals attended performances as adjudicators, scoring the show in 24 different categories. “The Little Mermaid” was nominated for 10 awards: Lead Actress (Anya D), Supporting Actress (Maggie S), Featured Actress (Ainsley O & Tara P), Female Vocalist (Anya D), Dance Ensemble (Scuttle & the Gulls), Small Ensemble (Ursula & the Eels), Costumes (Costuming Class), Makeup (Audrey S & the Cast), and Scenic Design (StageCraft Class). Winners will be announced at the Philadelphia Independence Awards Ceremony at Temple Performing Arts Center on May 23rd. 

Check out additional photos from the production here and here.