5 December – 11 Jan

This Christmas, Bristol Old Vic’s reimagining of The Little Mermaid dives boldly into a mesmerizing underwater world, blending theatrical spectacle, sharp humour, and a poignant environmental message. Directed by Olivier Award-winner Miranda Cromwell and written by Sonali Bhattacharyya, this inventive retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved tale offers a magical and thought-provoking experience for families.

At its heart, The Little Mermaid is a story about love, sacrifice, and fighting to protect what matters most. One does not expect subtlety at panto time, and some may feel the environmental themes a little too simplistically addressed, nevertheless it is a timely reflection on the fragility of marine ecosystems done without losing the story’s sense of adventure and fun.

The production’s emotional core lies in Liana Cottrill’s Sereia, a determined mermaid striving to save her home as warming seas and fading coral threaten all she holds dear. Cottrill brings both strength and tenderness to the role, anchoring the story with a performance full of heartfelt nuance. Opposing her are Michael Elcock and Corrina Buchan as Richard and Jocasta, a coldly commanding oil-mogul duo whose sharp delivery and icy resolve create a chilling sense of menace. Their son Kai, portrayed with sincerity by John Leader, provides the emotional counterpoint, torn between his family’s destructive ambitions and his growing bond with Sereia.

Nandi Bhebhe is a powerhouse as Coral, radiating warmth and authority. Her commanding vocals elevate some of the production’s most memorable musical moments, giving the show both emotional and sonic depth. The music, composed by Femi Temowo, is an eclectic mix of styles, blending playful rhythms with soulful ballads. On-stage musicians Alex Heane and Harry Miller add energy and vibrancy to the score, complementing the physical and visual storytelling beautifully.

Alison Fitzjohn, as Inky Slick, is a standout as the show’s antagonist, exuding charisma and razor-sharp wit. Dressed in an 80s rock-inspired costume, she delivers mischief and menace in equal measure, lighting up every scene she dominates. Meanwhile, Holly Downey, doubling as circus director, is extraordinary as the mermaid’s tail, her breathtaking aerial choreography adding layers of visual and symbolic beauty throughout.

Visually, the production dazzles. Ruby Pugh’s shimmering costumes ripple with texture and colour, perfectly complemented by Zeynep Kepekli’s luminous lighting design, which bathes the stage in hues that evoke the ocean’s mystery and vibrancy. The underwater kingdom feels alive, from glowing jellyfish to the shadowy shapes of ships sinking beneath the waves. The playful touches, such as the deadpan hammerhead shark and the mischievous clownfish armed with perfectly delivered dad jokes, are brought to life by the talented ensemble cast, adding levity and charm that delights both children and adults. Sparkling tassels and fluid choreography ensure scene transitions are seamless and captivating.

With its humour, heart, and stunning visuals, Bristol Old Vic’s The Little Mermaid captures both the wonder of the ocean and the urgency of protecting it. Family entertainment at its finest, this is a festive outing that will enchant audiences of all ages.

★★★★☆  Tilly Marshall, 13 December 2024

Photo credit: Johan Persson