ABC announced in May 2017 that they planned on staging a live performance on October 2, 2017, of “The Little Mermaid.” The network announced in August 2017 the project was put on hold.
To mark the 30th anniversary of the film, ABC is set to air on November 5, 2019 “The Wonderful World of Disney Presents The Little Mermaid Live!” The live performance will star Auli’I Cravalho as Ariel, Queen Latifah as Ursula and Shaggy as Sebastian.
“The Wonderful World of Disney Presents The Little Mermaid Live!” will be a tribute to the original classic animated movie and will have live musical performances which will be placed into the broadcast of the original animated film.
The format is a hybrid and will also include intricate sets on stage and costumes which were created for the live special which will include music from the original animated film and also the Broadway version which was Tony Award-winning which was composed by Alan Menken, an eight-time Oscar winner.
Also being showcased will be the film lyrics from Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater who was the lyricist for the Broadway show will be acting as a contributor.
Cravalho who will play Ariel has lent her voice to Moana in the animated movie. Queen Latifah will play Ursula and Shaggy will voice Sebastian. Shaggy is also expected to perform the signature song “Under the Sea.”
Disney announced they are starting production of a live-action feature adaptation of The Little Mermaid for director Rob Marshall, Hamilton‘s Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Menken.
Halle Bailey has been cast as Ariel in the movie, Awkwafina will play Ariel’s seagull friend Scuttle, and Jacob Tremblay as Ariel’s friendly fish pal Flounder, while Melissa McCarthy has been rumored for the role of Ursula and Harry Styles for Prince Eric.
Written by Barbara Sobel
Sources:
Deadline: ‘The Little Mermaid’ Live Event A Go On ABC With Auli’I Cravalho As Ariel, Queen Latifah & Shaggy Co-Starring
Featured and Top Image Courtesy Of Pixabay – Creative Commons License
