The Little Mermaid

By Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, Glenn Slater and Doug Wright. Holy Cross College. Directed by Shelly Miller. Swan Park Theatre Calisthenics Centre, Midvale WA. May 15-17, 2025

Holy Cross College’s production was a glorious school community production featuring a large cast with students from Years 4 to 12. Performing on campus at the Swan Park Theatre, this was a bright, colourful show that entertained throughout.

Simply set, the production used moveable set pieces against some great projections, with the capable band of students and school community members - visible on stage - under the baton of band director Kieran Ridgway. Costumes were bright, elaborate and fun, designed by director Shelly Miller.

This large cast had some impressive talent, singing well under the guidance of vocal coach Kerri Sloper and dancing with dedication the choreography of Annie Quinn, Georgina Pratt and Abbey Keating.

Karrali Palm, whom I assume is a natural redhead, was delightful in the title role, with the choice to use a noticeable Australian accent highlighting the fact that Ariel is in many ways an ordinary and naive teenager - a charming performance. Johan Cairo had lovely presence as Prince Eric, handsome and very regal, Madeline Phillip was a great villain as a ruthless and powerful Ursula.

Caleb Fong was an audience favourite, funny and clever as Sebastian. Ariel’s other mates were great fun with Saskia Derries sweet and severe as Flounder and Indiana Sirolli leaning into the humour of Scuttle.

Ted Gomes-Sebastiao as King Triton and Ronan Baltrop (great hair) brought maturity and authority to the roles of King Triton and Grimsby respectively. 

Lovely teamwork from Mya Phillips and Tatum de Coppi, twinning well as Flotsam and Jetsam. Ariel’s sisters were another great grouping, led by Ella Goodenough, unusually doubling as Chef Louis - a show highlight.

The ensemble, including numerous cameos, worked with total dedication to create a plethora of characters from sailors to jellyfish, frogs, ducks, castle staff and more.

A wonderful celebration of theatre and a fabulous showcase of student work, The Little Mermaid was a delight to watch and a credit to Holy Cross College. Congratulations to all involved.

Kimberley Shaw