Penn-Trafford goes 'Under the Sea' with spring musical 'Little Mermaid'

For seniors in the Penn-Trafford Drama Guild, this year’s musical is exciting but perhaps a little bittersweet, it being their last before graduating.

But it’s not stopping any of the 16 seniors from working as hard as they can to make “The Little Mermaid” a show to remember.

“It’s a lot more sentimental, as it’s my last show with the drama guild,” senior Mia Cavada said. “Doing an upbeat and popular children’s show has me really excited to perform it for little kids. I can’t wait to see them sing and dance along to the songs with us.”

Senior Grace Smith, who will play one of the maids alongside Cavada, agreed.

“The drama guild helped me make new friends these last few years,” she said. “I have a much bigger leadership role. I may be in the ensemble, but because I’m a senior, I get to help lead the underclassmen with certain tasks that the other leads might not be able to take part in.”

Dom Randall, one of two stage managers for the show, said “The Little Mermaid” is his absolute favorite Disney show.

“I look forward to the sound of the audience,” Randall said. “When I see them applaud, scream and shout, I know it’ll be such an amazing feeling.”

With a sizable cast, multiple lead roles including Ariel, Prince Eric, Scuttle, Chef Louis and Ursula are double-cast.

Senior Kasey Koziak, who will play the villainous Ursula during the show’s first weekend, said she loves hearing all of the songs she remembers from watching the movie.

“Everyone sounds so amazing, and I’m excited for everyone to hear it,” she said.

The musical will be directed by Tom Bekavec and Janine Hribal, with choreography by Felicia Freger and musical direction from Bev Rubright.

Producer Jen Haberberger said she has loved watching the show and cast come together.

“We have an incredible behind-the-scene team working on creating so many special elements, and the students — both onstage and with all of the crews — are working hard to create a complete underwater wonderland of the Penn-Trafford stage,” she said. “When I hear the kids sing at rehearsals, I get chills. We can’t wait for the community to see the show.”

Senior Zach Grabowski said he’s enjoyed watching younger students take their turn on the stage.

“It’s given me an opportunity to spend time with a great group of people for a huge part of their lives,” he said.