Habersham’s Stage Raiders production The Little Mermaid under the direction of Jeremy Bishop is funny, entertaining, and extremely enjoyable.
Bishop founded Stage Raiders in 2012. He teaches drama and English at Habersham Central High School. Along with Assistant Director, Kerri Pugh, the two have been working on the production since February.
“Thank goodness we started set and costume designs in January because we have had to make many, many changes. Fortunately, I have a great team,” Bishop reflected.
Bishop talks about his team with high accolades. Kerri Pugh helps with everything. Emerald Wallis created all the choreography. Savanna Hagerty helps with musical direction. Ben and Jenny Sanders helped with painting, design, audio, and many, many other things. Tanner Dover is the stage manager. He is very proud of all those who have worked behind the scenes to make this possible.
“We have about 50 cast members and 12 tech crew. However, when I count all the scenic painters, classes who assisted in building sets, and volunteers, we have well over 100 people involved in the process,” Bishop acknowledged.
Allison Highsmith, a senior at HCHS, plays the part of Ariel, the rebellious youngest daughter of King Tritan played by Isaiah Dover. Just as in the Disney film 1989, Ariel falls in love with a human, and Ursula, the sea witch played by Abigail Taylor convinces her to give up her voice to become a human.
Highsmith can not only act but sing and dance as well. As Ariel, she will capture the heart of every little girl who has ever dreamed of being the little mermaid.
“I hope to inspire kids to pursue their passions and talents because I know that sometimes the arts can be intimidating but I want to show the positive, fun side of it,” Highsmith explained.
Her aspirations for the future are to attend the University of North Georgia, majoring in biology with a minor in psychology. “The arts will always be a passion of mine and I will always find a place to plug it into my life. I want to potentially go into pediatric psychiatry.”
Isaiah Dover commands the stage as King Tritan, the Sea King and ruler of the underwater kingdom. Dover, a senior at HCHS, wants to pursue a career in voice acting.
Abigail Taylor is a Junior and loves playing the part of Ursula. “I love her character. It’s just a lot of fun. I love the voice that she has,” Taylor said. “I feel a lot of sassy going on with her.” Her stage presence gives much to the audience and her musical talent stands out.
The role of Prince Eric is played by Bobby Ray Wallace. He and Ariel are a perfect combination and when Ariel’s sidekicks, Sebastian (Terrell Miller), Flounder (Sam Warren), and Scuddle (Maddie Taylor) are added, the stage comes to life. You will laugh at their silly ideas and antics.
The talent overflows on stage and is obvious from the very first scene. Bishop says there is so much more to the musical because many of the songs were not in the animated movie.
“From tap-dancing seagulls to Ursula’s minions, you will be pleasantly surprised. And not to give away any spoilers, but the musical doesn’t end quite the same way the movie does either,” Bishop added.
Be sure to expect a photo opportunity for your little ones after the show. Bishop wants to extend high praise to Celena Libby and Christy Weidner for the incredible scenic art and sculptures.
Opening night is tonight, Thursday, April 25, 7:30 p.m. The show runs from April 25 – 27 at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee on April 28 at 2:00 p.m. The performance is held in the Habersham Central High School Auditorium. Tickets are available online or at the door. The cost is $5 for students and $7 for adults.
