To honor the 30th anniversary of one of the most beloved Disney films of all time, The Wonderful World of Disney and ABC are proud to present a spectacular, live musical event showcasing The Little Mermaid.
- This special tribute to the original animated classic and its timeless music will take viewers on a magical adventure under the sea as live musical performances by a star-studded cast will be interwoven into the broadcast of the original feature film.
- This never-before-seen hybrid format will feature beautifully intricate sets and costumes, with music from the original animated film and the Tony Award-winning Broadway stage version, originally composed by eight-time Oscar-winning composer and Disney Legend, Alan Menken.
- Howard Ashman’s iconic film lyrics will also be showcased, while lyricist for the Broadway adaptation, Glenn Slater, will contribute to the star-studded spectacular.
- Following her breakout role as the voice of Moana, Auli’i Cravalho will make a splash as Ariel in the live studio production.
- Oscar-nominated, and GRAMMY, Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning R&B artist, actor and producer Queen Latifah is set to play Ursula.
- Renowned reggae musician, singer, DJ, actor and GRAMMY-winning artist Shaggy will voice the beloved crustacean, Sebastian.
- Additional cast announcements will be made at a later date.
- The special will be produced by Done+Dusted and executive producers include Done+Dusted’s Hamish Hamilton, who will also direct, Katy Mullan, David Jammy, Raj Kapoor and Ian Stewart.
- Also executive producing is Richard Kraft, producer and director of the acclaimed Hollywood Bowl productions of The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast.
- The Wonderful World of Disney presents The Little Mermaid Live! will air Tuesday, November 5 (8:00 – 10:00 p.m. EST), live on ABC.
- This is actually ABC’s second attempt at this live musical event after it was first announced in May 2017 only to be postponed in July of that same year.