Disney has shared more information today as it prepares to debut an all-new theatrical production, "The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure," this fall at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
The new production will feature entirely new physical sets, a cast of puppets, live performers, and striking visuals. Sarah Schmidt, Creative Concept Artist & Illustrator for Disney Live Entertainment, shared insights into the creative process: "We thought about what Ariel's room may look like and came up with this collage style that you'll see woven throughout the production. This new look really informed every design decision – from scenic, to the puppets, even the custom digital content being created for the show."
To create this artful blend of practical and projected scenic design, the team is integrating traditional methods like blacklight puppetry with state-of-the-art technology. Show Director James Silson explained the innovative approach: "We're using some really cutting-edge tools like motion capture technology, which you may have seen used in blockbuster films. Basically, we have a live performer in a suit covered in sensors, and the data captured from their performance helps us create a digital animation of the character, which our animators then use to bring them to life on stage."
This advanced digital imagery will enhance the show, bringing characters such as King Triton, Ursula, and Ariel's sisters to life. The production will kick off with an all-new "Daughters of Triton" number, showcasing the integration of digital and physical elements. "We're really blending the line between real and digital in ways we've never done before to completely fill the stage for these show-stopping scenes," Silson added. "You're going to see these large new physical set pieces we've created blend seamlessly with a digital environment in a way that really fills the stage. You'll see digital puppets transform into real ones right before your eyes. You'll even see animated characters performing in the same space as real actors. It's going to feel like magic!"
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