After Ariel sang her first four notes, I was shocked to think she was lip-syncing! What? The Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre (ESRT) is known for their live performances using children and few adults in our community. But hold on . . . as she continued the enchanting song, and I realized — wait, could it be true? That perfect voice was really and truly coming from Bella Stevens, a 9th grader at Bayside Academy! WOW! WOW! WOW!
ESRT is performing a dazzling rendition of The Little Mermaid, Thursday through Saturday, in Henry George Park, on the bluff overlooking Mobile Bay. The waterfront setting is perfect for mermaids and sailors to splash and play in gorgeous costumes and their dancing and acting will make you believe you are diving deep — and yes, that’s the real sunset behind them, not a set.
The fun of local theatre is knowing the people in the show. I’ve known many of the children and teens since they were tiny little things, and it was fun before the show to have them walk by in costume and say, “Hi Mrs. Tarabella!” They were all just adorable!
Liam Searcy, who knocked it out of the park with his role of Prince Eric, is a local favorite but will be leaving us for college next year. He’s performed in many local shows and is an amazing talent. Such a well-rounded guy, Liam was home schooled and achieved his Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scouts last year. It doesn’t hurt that his entire family is gushing with musical talent, but I know Liam will go far with his impressive acting and singing skills.
Ursula, played by Marti Foster, who is a newcomer to the stage and also a mom of three, was a powerful force of talent and her costume was incredible. Every time she stepped on stage, I thought, “Ooo! This is going to be good!”
The entire cast was fabulous, from the big — yet nimble chef, down to the tiniest guppies.
Although Ariel found her voice again through magic, Erin Langley is the one who really supplies the magic to ESRT! Serving as the Executive and Artistic Director for the company, it’s her talent and vision that bring these shows to life.
The power behind the machine? Moms. Always the moms.
Ticket prices range from $15 – $25 and are available online HERE. Shows start at 7:30pm and the gates open an hour earlier. Picnics are encouraged, although concessions are available. You’ll also need to bring your own chairs or blankets.
This outdoor theatre program is a major gem in our expanding crown here in Fairhope, so make sure you support this hard-working group by getting out of the house and spending a fun evening under the stars . . . and under the sea!
For complete information on The Little Mermaid and Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre, click HERE.
This was the first production my daughter performed in. From the schedules to the costumes to the volunteers to the sets! This was an amazing group. Erin and her team of ESRT supporters really made this a memorable time in our lives. We look forward to many more productions in the future!
I hope they add extra performances in the future, because so many people are hearing about it and want to see the productions! Thanks for allowing your daughter to entertain us!
Leslie-Anne
As I am partial to this group and a particular young woman who has been a part of these amazing shows for many years, your article made my heart smile. Thanks for the shout out to ESRT and all the young and “slightly” older adults who have put their blood, sweat and tears (I have witnessed all 3) into every performance!!! Until you have actually experienced seeing a production, there is not enough words that can describe the emotions you will feel. I am blown away every time!!!
Never Land comes to Fairhope in the Fall!! Watch for it!
Hey darling Kathy! Your tiny actress has grown into a beautiful young lady! What a great group for her to belong to and I know you’ve been an instrumental force in guiding her into pursuing her gifts! I saw that little hint about Peter Pan at the end of the program. Can’t wait to learn more! Congratulations for an excellent performance!
When I drug my husband to a production on the bluff by this incredible Children’s Theater he left the play “commanding” me to make sure all future productions were on his calendar and that we would be supporting the ESRT!! Hope to get some of my grandchildren involved in the theater’s summer camp programs and future productions. Erin Langley and her team are simply brilliant and so passionate about the ESRT!! I thank them for making Fairhope ESRT’s homebase. Who needs Broadway when we’ve got Eastern Shore Repertory Theater!! Looking forward to Sunday’s performance.
I’m so glad you love ESRT! I know your grandchildren will love the summer camp I wish I’d had something like that when I was a little girl!
This looks like so much fun…I love local,theater! Obviously, a very talented,group! Happy Mother’s Day!
Thanks, and you too! tonight’s performance (friday) was rained out, which I think is a first for this group. Usually such a beautiful time of the year, but anyway, there will be a make-up performance on Sunday night. Hope you have a lovely motherly weekend!
How incredibly fun!! Such talented kids and the sunset in the background, wow wow wow! Have a wonderful Mother’s Day Leslie Anne!
Thanks Jenna. And you as well!
Bet this was a fun evening, always great to see locals making a splash! Fabulous costumes, wow.
Happy Mother’s Day Leslie Anne…….
“Making a splash.” good one! And a Happy Mother’s Day to you as well!