The Little Mermaid ballet delivers a surprisingly tragic and emotionally charged experience, quite distinct from the beloved Disney adaptation. As a long-time fan of the Disney version, I was utterly captivated by this darker, more mature portrayal. In fact, I dare say that I enjoyed this version even more as an adult.

One of the most striking aspects of this ballet is its depiction of the titular Mermaid, whose costume includes long pants that evoke the appearance of a tail, making her feel otherworldly. The Magic Shadows — talented dancers dressed in black — enhance this illusion, making her appear to swim effortlessly across the stage. These dancers also play a pivotal role in the Transformation Scene, where the Mermaid becomes human. This scene was gut-wrenchingly painful to watch. Both my friend and I agreed that this moment was the most haunting in the entire performance. The Mermaid's agonizing struggle during the transformation, which was portrayed with fierce, frantic movement, made it seem as if real dark magic was at work, tearing her apart in the process.

In the September 6th and 8th performances, Karina González played the Mermaid, embodying this transformation with intensity. For other performances, Danbi Kim takes on the role, delivering her own mesmerizing take on this tortured character.

The Sea Witch, portrayed by Harper Watters (or Naazir Muhammad in alternate performances), was terrifying, both in appearance and demeanor. With bold red attire and eerie face markings, the Witch is an unmistakable, menacing presence on stage. This version of the tale brings a whole new level of torment for the Mermaid, as the Prince falls in love not with her, but with another woman, a Princess. This heartbreak resonates on a personal level, evoking the harsh pain of a broken heart. The Prince, played by Gian Carlo Perez (or Chase O’Connell in other performances), is a charming and likable character, further complicating the emotional turmoil, as he is under the mistaken belief that the Princess who he is now in love with saved him.

The plot takes its inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's original tale, but also diverges in fascinating ways. It centers on a Poet (portrayed by Connor Walsh in certain performances or Skylar Campbell in others), who creates the Mermaid as a reflection of his own emotional turmoil and longing. This intriguing character is present in most scenes as an observer, and his connection to the Mermaid becomes something to ponder as the ballet progresses.

As a personal preference for ballets, I always read the synopsis beforehand to get a sense of the story, but I decided to stop reading before the final three paragraphs. This left some suspense, especially concerning the Sea Witch’s proposal to The Little Mermaid, which I’m glad I didn’t spoil for myself. There was much to ponder for the final 30 minutes.

The music, composed by Lera Auerbach, is hauntingly beautiful, amplifying the emotional weight of each scene. The choreography, brilliantly timed to the somber music, heightens the sense of entrapment, particularly in Act II when the Mermaid is confined to a box-like room, symbolizing her isolation and despair.

Background dancers add a visual elegance to the production, often dressed in matching outfits that enhance the fluidity of the scenes. Their precision and coordination are a testament to the overall excellence of this production.

Without giving away the ending, I can say that The Little Mermaid ballet takes you on an emotional journey that is both beautifully tragic and thought-provoking. The role of the Poet, who watches over the Mermaid, leaves you reflecting on the nature of creation, longing, and heartbreak.

The Little Mermaid ballet, currently running at the Wortham Theater Center in Houston, offers a deeply moving and visually stunning performance that stands apart from the Disney version most are familiar with. This captivating production runs until September 15, 2024, and I highly encourage ballet enthusiasts and newcomers alike to experience this powerful retelling. With its mesmerizing choreography, haunting music, and emotionally charged performances, it’s a must-see for anyone looking to be transported by a ballet that is as beautiful as it is heartbreaking. Don't miss the chance to witness this unforgettable journey before it concludes this weekend!

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