The Watermill Theatre in Newbury has transformed into an enchanting underwater world with its festive production of The Little Mermaid, offering a delightful twist on Hans Christian Andersen's classic fairy tale. This charming adaptation, running until 4 January 2025, relocates the beloved story to the rugged coasts of Cornwall, blending live folk music with mystical storytelling to create a magical experience for all ages.
A Cornish Twist on a Classic Tale
Adapted by Elgiva Field and Lara Barbier, this version follows the sea girl Merryn, portrayed with determined charm by Annabelle Aquino. Unlike traditional tellings, Merryn's journey to the surface is driven by her search for her missing younger brother Kitto, played by the endearing Zach Burns. To find him, she makes a perilous bargain with the sea witch Granny Ocean, trading her voice for legs and facing the threat of turning into sea dust if she fails within three days.
The production embraces the Watermill's signature actor-musician style, with the cast providing cheerful live folk music on stage. This creates an immersive atmosphere, enhanced by April Dalton's mystical set design featuring flapping seagull puppets and bubbles floating into the auditorium during underwater scenes.
Romance and Wonder On Stage
At the heart of the story lies the developing romance between the mute Merryn and the kind fisherman Cadan, brought to life by Tom Babbage. Their chemistry fizzes with a wordless connection that captivates the audience. Merryn's wonder at the human world is palpable as she experiences simple joys like shaking hands and putting on a coat for the first time.
The musical numbers, composed by Amie Parsons, provide regular doses of joy throughout the performance. Aquino's golden voice shines particularly bright during her musical moments, adding emotional depth to her character's silent journey.
A Family-Friendly Adventure
While this adaptation contains less darkness than either Andersen's original or the Disney version, its cheerful tone proves perfect for family audiences. Children in particular appear mesmerised by the production's visual magic and gentle storytelling. Though some might wish for more narrative jeopardy, the overall effect remains thoroughly entertaining.
This Cornish Little Mermaid successfully combines folk tradition with fairy tale wonder, creating a festive treat that makes a splash with theatre-goers of all generations. The Watermill's production demonstrates how classic stories can find new life through creative reinterpretation and heartfelt performance.
