What does it take to bring an underwater kingdom to life? At Rossville Schools, the answer is approximately 75 students, hundreds of hours of preparation, a professional theatrical set, and a community that believes in the power of the arts.
The Rossville Fine Arts Department invites audiences to become “Part of Our World” with its upcoming production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR., November 6 and 7 at 7:00 p.m. in the Rossville Auditorium.
Bringing together students in grades 4–12 from Rossville’s art, band, choir, and theatre programs, the production is one of the department’s most ambitious collaborative efforts.
Based on the beloved Disney film, The Little Mermaid JR. follows Ariel, a young mermaid who dreams of life beyond the sea. Featuring familiar songs such as “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” and “Kiss the Girl,” the musical promises an evening of adventure, laughter, and heart.
Preparations began in August, with students and directors dedicating approximately 12–15 hours each week over the past 10 weeks to rehearsals and production work. This year’s show also features a professionally designed theatrical set, rented specifically for the production.
Director Jason Newhouser says the extraordinary collaboration makes the demanding work of producing a musical worthwhile.
“Before coming to Rossville, as a theatre guy, I really didn’t like musicals,” Newhouser admitted. “They’re a tremendous amount of work, with so many moving parts. But at Rossville, it’s genuinely a pleasure. So many people step up to help, from parents and teachers to students and community members. It truly is a collaborative effort. I’m proud of this show, these kids, and the people who make it all possible. I can’t wait for our community to see it.”
For senior Kendall McCullough, who stars as Ariel, the production is especially meaningful. Recently, students watched a recording of Rossville’s Frozen JR., a musical McCullough performed in as a sixth grader. Seeing her younger self onstage brought an emotional realization.
“I’ve grown so much on this stage,” McCullough reflected. “It’s meant so much to me.”
Now, as a senior leading the cast, McCullough’s journey reflects the lasting impact of arts education and the opportunities available to Rossville students.
“We are incredibly fortunate to be part of a community that supports the arts the way Rossville does,” Newhouser added. “These students have poured their hearts into this production, and having a community that shows up to celebrate their work means everything.”
Special pre-show festivities will include face painting, merchandise sales, flowers available for purchase for performers, and an opportunity to meet a real mermaid! Additional details will be announced soon.
Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. will be performed Friday, November 6, and Saturday, November 7, at 7:00 p.m. in the Rossville Auditorium. Tickets are $12 for side seating and $15 for premium center seating and are available through Eventlink.
Friday, November 6: https://public.eventlink.com/tickets?t=209668
Saturday, November 7: https://public.eventlink.com/tickets?t=209669
The Rossville Fine Arts Department invites the entire community to come be “Part of Our World” and support the arts at Rossville!
Rossville students rehearse for the Fine Arts Department’s upcoming production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. Approximately 75 students in grades 4–12 are participating in the production, which brings together the school’s art, band, choir, and theatre programs. Performances are November 6 and 7 at 7:00 p.m. in the Rossville Auditorium.