Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr to be staged by The Young Performers’ Project at the Milkwood Theatre, Danville: 2 – 12 April 2026.

Fishy Fable: Inspired by Hans Christian Andersens’ beloved fairy tale, and based on the classic animated Disney movie, The Little Mermaid Jr stage musical is The Young Performer’s Project’s first show of 2026, coming to The Milkwood Theatre in Durban North over the Easter holidays from 2 – 12 April 2026.

BUY TICKETS HERE

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages – perfect for the youthful 50 strong cast. This time around, the show features 30 senior performers, and 21 junior performers.

The Little Mermaid Jr is directed by Daisy Spencer, with choreography by Evashnee Pillay, music direction by Des Govender, sound design by Ant Govender, set and prop design by Nicolene Steyn and fabulous under the sea inspired costumes by Kathy Singery.

The cast includes Ariel played by Chloe Marot from St. Mary’s DSG (last seen in Shrek and Annie); Sebastian is Khethukuthula Ngcobo (I.S.P.A) and Flounder is played by Azania Mavimbela (Crawford North Coast).

In a heartwarming full circle moment, Azania’s mother Sindi, a current drama teacher, reflected on her own experience as a participant in YPP’s 2009 production of Big River, directed by Themi Venturas. Her daughter Azania, who entered the project seventeen years later as a Junior performer in A Fairytale Christmas Carol, is a testament to the organization’s lasting influence. This poignant connection also highlights the profound impact of YPP’s programmes on the lives of its alumni who are giving back to their communities as arts educators.

Inspired by Hans Christian Andersens’ beloved fairy tale, and based on the classic animated Disney movie, The Little Mermaid Jr tells of a mermaid who dreams of the world above the sea and gives up her voice to find true love.

Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colourful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr offers a fantastic creative opportunity for rich costumes and sets, as well as the chance to perform some of the best-known songs from the past 30 years. Songs include: “Under the Sea“; “Kiss the Girl“; and “Part of Your World“.

Written by Doug Wright, with music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater.

Tickets are through Webtickets here. Their first show is a special Relaxed Performance on Thursday 2 April at 2.30 where theatre etiquette guidelines are relaxed and the performance is consciously calmed, where the auditorium lights are dimmed, but not dark and the audience meet the characters ahead of time. This Relaxed Performance is ideal for audience members with sensory sensitivities. For all performances, audiences are welcome to dress up as the cast.

Good to Know:

• Tickets: Webtickets -> click here to buy
• Their first show is a special Relaxed performance on Thursday 2 April at 2.30
• Scholars and pensioners 10% off any seats throughout.
• The show runs at 65 minutes – no interval
• Audiences can meet the stage characters after the show

BUY TICKETS HERE

Durban comedy favourites Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert-McIlroy return to The Rhumbelow Theatre, in Umbilo this Valentines weekend with their new musical comedy –  BUMP & GRIND, a high-energy musical sketch comedy that delivers a riotous mix of song, dance, quick-fire character comedy and heart.

Expect new characters, old favourites, and a soundtrack packed with thumping hits as McIlroy and Bobbert once again deliver their trademark blend of side-splitting humour, larger-than-life personalities, and musical mayhem!

Back by popular demand are Bruce and Charmaine as unforgettable Elvis impersonators, Dot and Max settling into the chaos of retirement village life, and everyone’s favourite philosopher of the people, Dr Veejay, offering his “words of wisdom.” Add in a host of hilarious new faces, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for Valentines fun!

Directed and choreographed by the sensational Daisy Spencer, Bump and Grind promises to keep audiences on their feet — or rolling in the aisles — with laughter, music, and McIlroy & Bobbert’s unbeatable comic chemistry.

• Venue: The Rhumbelow Theatre, Umbilo
• Dates: Friday 13 & Saturday 14 Feb – 7:30pm (doors open 6pm) | Sunday 15 Feb 2026 – 2pm (doors open 12.30pm)
• Tickets: From R180pp
• Bookings: Webtickets

Other Info to Note:

• Picnic baskets welcome
• Food and Drink on sale at the venue
• Full bar available (no alcohol may be brought onto the premises)
• Limited secure parking available
• All seats are allocated by the theatre management
• Tables seat 8
• Wheelchair friendly venue – contact 082 499 8636 to make arrangements

BUY TICKETS HERE

.  

Durban comedy favourites Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert-McIlroy return to Talloula with their new musical comedy –  BUMP & GRIND, a high-energy musical sketch comedy that delivers a riotous mix of song, dance, quick-fire character comedy and heart. Created under the direction and choreography of Daisy Spencer, the show has already delighted audiences this festive season with its trademark MacBob mayhem and polish.

Described by Billy Suter as “a sparkly cracker of song, dance and off-the-wall humour,” BUMP & GRIND is a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud theatrical experience. The show tumbles through a helter-skelter parade of characters — from fan favourites Bruce and Charmaine, as Elvis impersonators, pensioners Beatrice and Max, and super-sage Dr Veejay, to bold new creations including AI androids, Latin dance sensations and an Irish preacher with stand-up ambitions.

The music includes numbers from Talking Heads, Lady Gaga, Elvis, The Beatles, Whitney Houston and a climactic medley of ’80s chart hits.

“It’s a vibe… Aaron and Lisa’s talent and skill lie in their seemingly effortless transformations from one character to another — and making every dance hit and ballad that character’s own!” Shannon Kenny (ArtSmart)

With broad family appeal, high energy and a proven track record of sold-out runs, don’t miss BUMP & GRIND at Talloula at the end of January!

Duration of Show: 2 Acts of 40 minutes each with a 20 minute interval
Food and Drink on sale at the venue.
Full bar available
Picnic baskets welcome

• Venue: Talloula, Bothas Hill
• Dates: Friday 30 Jan & Saturday 31 Jan – 7pm (doors open 6pm) | Sunday 1 Feb 2026 – 2pm (doors open 12.30pm)
• Tickets: R220pp
• Bookings: Webtickets or Rowena on 082 304 6495 (for meal options and orders)

WIN A TABLE OF 10 TICKETS HERE!!

BUY TICKETS HERE

.