The Little Mermaid Opens On Broadway Tonight

The Little Mermaid, Disney's latest attempt to conquer Broadway by adapting its animated films for the stage, opens at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre this evening. The Lunt-Fontanne was the site of Disney's first Broadway triumph (after it moved from the Palace), Beauty and the Beast, which closed there in July 2007. Directed by Francesca Zambello, The Little Mermaid stars Norm Lewis, Eddie Korbich, Sherie Rene Scott, and Broadway newcomer Sierra Boggess in the title role.

The Little Mermaid Starts Broadway Previews

Disney's new Broadway musical version of its animated film The Little Mermaid began previews tonight at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. In addition to Mermaid, Disney is currently represented on Broadway by The Lion King and Mary Poppins. (Past Disney Broadway musicals include Tarzan, Beauty and the Beast, and Aida.)

Opening Night Out West

Two of the season's biggest Broadway shows are opening tonight -- just not on Broadway. The new Mel Brooks musical, Young Frankenstein, is opening in Seattle, where it is having its pre-Broadway tryout. Meanwhile in Denver, Disney's The Little Mermaid opens this evening as well. Out-of-town tryouts are common for Broadway-bound musicals as a way to fine tune the production before getting within earshot of merciless New York theatergoers. Frankenstein and Mermaid will have their official Broadway openings in November and December, respectively.