Westminster Christian to present 'The Little Mermaid Jr.'

The middle school students of Westminster Christian Fine Arts department are thrilled to put on one of Disney's classics, "The Little Mermaid Jr." Shows will be held at Westminster Christian School in Elgin at 7 p.m. Friday, April 12, and at 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, April 13. Tickets are available at www.westminsterchristian.tix.com

Disney's "The Little Mermaid Jr." shows how life is not all that great "Under the Sea." Mermaid teenager Ariel is deeply in love with Prince Eric. One problem is that she cannot be with him due to her not having legs. With the help of worrisome crab Sebastian, fun-loving Flounder and talkative Scuttle, will she be able to find a way to be with the Prince? Come see to find out.

Seventh-grader Naia Johnson plays the unstoppable sea witch Ursula. Naia has been in several Westminster productions and is excited to be back on the stage.

"I hope that the audience sees God through this cast and that we will entertain them," she said. "I hope they will love this cast as much as I do."

The iconic mermaid Ariel is played by seventh-grader Mckenna Koertge. This is McKenna's first production with Westminster.

"I was surprised because it's my first show (at Westminster) so getting the lead was a huge shock," she said. Her advice to newcomers in musical theater is, "Never give up!"

Timmy Schuld plays one of Ursula's sea spies, Jetsam. This is Timmy's last middle school performance at Westminster.

"It has been a good experience. I enjoy seeing how everyone interacts with each other and the encouragement from the directors, crew, and cast," Timmy said.

Timmy loves his character.

"I like playing evil characters, it helps me expand my theater experience," he said.

Audience members are sure to hum and sing along to familiar tunes like, "Under the Sea" and "Part of Your World," along with many more favorites from the show.

"Ariel is my absolute favorite Disney princess which made me a little hesitant to pick such an iconic show," said producer/director Johanna Johnson. "However, these students have been working so hard over the past few months and I am so proud of how they have brought this show to life."

Johnson praised those who work behind the scenes, as well.

"Our crews have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure every set piece, musical piece and costume reflects the heart of our school. I am proud to work along such an amazingly talented group of students, parents and staff members at Westminster."

Westminster Christian School is at 2700 W. Highland Avenue, Elgin. For details, call (847) 695-0310 or email theater@westminsterchristian.org.