Review of Derby Theatre's Digital Version of The Little Mermaid #DTLittleMermaid

Team Fish otherwise known as April Nerissa Hudson and Oliver Ashworth performing Derby Theatre's online festive show The Little Mermaid
Photo credit: Pamela Raith.

Background

On December 3rd, two socially distanced performances of Derby Theatre's festive family show The Little Mermaid were recorded; featuring two teams of acting pairs. This was in preparation for special online screenings (available now) until 02 January.

Actors April Nerissa Hudson and Oliver Ashworth are Team Fish, and actors Joelle Brabban and Jordan Laidley are Team Chips. Which team you see performing will depend on the date you book. Tickets are on sale now Cost is £20 per family.

Overview

To view you will require internet access and a password (to be supplied). After making your booking through the website you will be sent a link and password on the day of your booking (one hour before the scheduled start time), sent via email to the address on your theatre account. This will enable you to view the performance on Vimeo. A Vimeo account is not required to watch The Little Mermaid but you will need to enter the password.

You will have two hours after the scheduled start time to view the pre-recorded performance before the password expires.

Comment

Reviewer was sent the password prior to the press night showing on 12th December. Reviewer plugged her HDMI cable from her laptop to her Smart TV and so was able to view the show on the larger screen. The setting up was straightforward and there was no problem inputting the password and accessing via Vimeo.

In her warm hearted introduction, Derby Theatre's artistic director, Sarah Brigham reveals how this much loved theatre's income had halved almost overnight due to the Covid 19 restrictions. She appeals for support for the Derby venue at a time which is proving to be continually devastating for theatres, and for arts and culture everywhere.

Reviewer watched this familiar underwater (and above water) adventure; performed by Team Fish. The two actors play all characters, while narrating. There's lots of character and gentle humour in this show.

The sound quality is good and the scenery remains unchanged throughout; the lighting helps to strengthen backdrop scenes with colourful mixes of purple shades, deep blues and sea greens. The performance includes song and low energy dance, there is also puppetry and some well-designed props.

To bring this show to a digital audience has involved careful planning. Reviewer thinks this streaming service is great for family viewing at home. The show is nicely balanced and not too long for little ones to lose interest. 

A thoroughly enjoyable production which will not generate the big box office sales as in-person performances of previous years, but will potentially achieve a wider countrywide reach due to this year's unusual format. 

                                            **ENDS**


Review by theatre critic, Debra Hall