On June 4th the Hollywood Bowl is presenting for the first time ever a live concert of songs from Disney’s 1989 film “The Little Mermaid” featuring a 71-piece orchestra and incredibly talented guest performers.
According to Billboard, the songs will be performed along scenes from the film played on the background and it will also feature many numbers from the same-titled Broadway musical. Co-composer Alan Menken said the idea came while discussing possible touring plans with Richard Kraft.
Singer Sara Bareilles will play Ariel, the main character from the famous story, a mermaid whose biggest wish is to have legs while Rebel Wilson will be Ursula, the main villain who will make Ariel’s dream come true in exchange for her voice. Darren Criss will also have a main role as Prince Eric, Ariel’s love interest who is saved by her from drowning.
Other cast members include the Webby Award winner Titus Burgess as the “court composer” Sebastian, Daytime Emmy nominated John Stamos as Chef Louis, Tony Award nominated Norm Lewis as King Triton and Joshua Colley as Flounder.
The orchestra and a 12-person choir will be led by Michael Kosarin, who also worked with Menken on Disney’s 1997 film “Hercules”.
“Seeing the material from the movie wedded to the Broadway show will be incredible” said Menken to Billboard, not discarding the possibilities of touring this show, though plans are still not concrete.
Tickets for “The Little Mermaid” live at the Hollywood Bowl will go on sale April 9 at 10 am PT via Ticketmaster.
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