
We are thrilled to announce the cast for our Christmas production this year, Mike Kenny’s The Little Mermaid, an uplifting underwater adventure ideal for ages 5 years and over.
The Little Mermaid is a smaller gem of a festive production set to make a splash with audiences of all ages this Christmas, which replaces our originally scheduled production of Aladdin, a delightful and captivating show which allows us to welcome audiences back into the Theatre this festive season, with social distancing and safety measures in place.

The Little Mermaid will feature two teams of actors, who will perform on alternate days, and the cast includes:
– April Nerissa Hudson (Man Like Mobeen and Doctors for the BBC and Wanted, celebrating Women’s History Month for Gazebo Theatre’s national tour)
– Oliver Ashworth (A Christmas Carol for Derby Theatre, The Ballad of Robin Hood for Southwark Playhouse, Downton Abbey for ITV and Knightfall for the History Channel and Netflix);
– Joelle Brabban (War Horse for the National Theatre, My Mother Said I Never Should and The Rise and Fall of Little Voice for Theatre by the Lake and Holes for Nottingham Playhouse);
– Jordan Laidley (Shere Khan in The Jungle Book for Jelly Fish Theatre, The Polar Express for Vintage Trains, Aladdin for Polka Dot and Shebeen for Nottingham Playhouse).
About The Show
Far below the crashing waves of the ocean’s surface, and into its deepest depths, is where our story begins. The Little Mermaid finds herself out of her depth as she battles with storms and witches to find her one true love.
The Little Mermaid weaves a magical tale of love, loss and adventure where two fish characters take us on a journey with the ever-curious little mermaid, who is enthralled with the unknown world above the sea and the humans that inhabit it. The Little Mermaid longs to leave her beautiful world and chase happiness as a human… but transformation and love come at a price.
Directed by Sarah Brigham and from the amazingly talented creative team who have produced many much-loved Derby Theatre Christmas shows, this enchanting story promises to be a theatrical experience that will thrill children and adults alike.
Creative Team
Adapted by Mike Kenny
Directed by Sarah Brigham
Designed by Ali Allen
Lighting Designed by Jamie Vella
Sounds Designed (and Composed) by Ivan Stott
The Little Mermaid is based on the original production by Dundee Rep and Scottish Dance Theatre.
Visit the show page for information on health and safety guidelines, accessible performances, seating plan and how to book.