Photos provided by Brett Beiner

Even when the original Disney movies are animated, another magical quality emerges whenever they come alive on stage and “The Little Mermaid” is one of many to follow in the footsteps of such Broadway blockbusters as “Beauty And The Beast” and “The Lion King.”

Luckily, those in the Chicago area doesn’t have to travel far to be “Part Of Your World” thanks to Drury Lane Theatre’s latest production, which runs through Sunday, January 12 and may just be a match the whole family can enjoy, especially during the holidays.

Although “The Little Mermaid” largely takes place “Under The Sea,” there’s a heartwarming thread of love, sacrifice and self-discovery throughout the stunningly simulated and beautifully adapted production that aligns with “The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year.”

Featuring music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, book by Doug Wright, plus local direction from Scott Weinstein (“Ring Of Fire: The Music Of Johnny Cash”), audiences of all ages are sure to be transfixed by Ariel (Sarah Kay), the gorgeous lead mermaid defined by a marvelous voice.

Despite being told to stay in the water and avoid interacting with humans, as per the strict orders of her father King Triton (Anand Nagraj), curiosity gets the best of the iconic character, so much so that she stumbles upon the dashing Prince Eric (Patrick Johnson) and winds up saving him from drowning after a shipwreck.

As Ariel is constantly reminded by a slew of sidekick creatures, including Sebastian the crab and Flounder the guppie, steered respectively by skillful puppeteers Michael Earvin Martin and Maya Lou Hlava, there’s no way a mermaid could marry a man, unless of course she surrenders her voice to the King’s banished sister, the evil sea witch Ursula, played by the spectacular Sawyer Smith, in exchange for humanity.

Naturally, this questionable plan sparks a race to “Kiss The Girl,” grave concern from her father and several deceitful attempts by Ursula to sabotage their romance, culminating in an epic confrontation between the three main family members.

Throughout it all, “The Little Mermaid” often feels like her dreams are distant and hope is hard to find, though it’s a combination of tenacity and the unwavering support of a few underwater friends that’s bound to be contagious for any crowd looking for a lift in spirit.

“The Little Mermaid” continues at the Drury Lane Theatre through Sunday, January 12. For additional details, visit DruryLaneTheatre.com.

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