Literally Alive presents “The Little Mermaid” Book ... · PDF fileLiterally Alive presents “The Little Mermaid” Book & Lyrics by ... the three are doing a playful little dance

Literally Alive presents “The Little Mermaid” Book & Lyrics by Brenda Bell Music by Mark McGee

Copyright © 2000 by Brenda J. Bell 1

Opening Song: One World in Two Parts (As the music starts in the darkness the lights come up and we are in the Kingdom of King Neptune. Slowly from the back of the house the creatures of the sea begin a precession through the theatre. King Neptune appears on stage. Some of the creatures remain in the audience encouraging the audience to hold hands and sing along. Some of the creatures with solo lines may appear on stage.) All Solo ALL

One world, one world One world, one world One world, one world It’s all one world (May be repeated as often as necessary) It’s one world in two parts Joining hands and joining hearts It’s one world in two parts Joining hands and joining hearts Celebrate! Celebrate! The wonder of each other Celebrate! Celebrate! The wonder of each other Come journey to a new world That’s different from your own You may find a treasure there Like nothing else you’ve known It’s one world in two parts Joining hands and joining hearts It’s one world in two parts Joining hands and joining hearts

Ensemble (spoken) Ladies and gentleman, boys and girls, Sea and Land Creatures alike — King Neptune, King of the Sea!

King Neptune (spoken) Welcome to my underwater kingdom! It lies very deep in the



ocean, so deep that the longest rope you can imagine would not be long enough to reach it, indeed you would need to pile many tall steeples one on top of the other to measure the distance from my kingdom to yours. I trust that today is your first experience in our underwater fantasyland. Well it’s not so different from your own world is it? Of course at first look it may seem very strange to you. Where you have grassy fields we have pink sand and unlike your world we have no sky or moon or sun. No just an unearthly blue-green glow. Our fish slip carelessly in and out of window and bushes much like the little animals you call birds that fly through the air and perch on your trees. Even the people are not nearly as different as you might think. Oh yes, of course we have tails and fins where you have . . . what are they? Oh yes, legs. Did you bring your legs with you today? Oh what a pity, it would have been a much easier journey for you if you had only brought your fins. Be that as it may, I believe that you will find that the people of the sea, Mermen and Mermaids are not very different from you. We have dreams and fears and like, you people of the land, what we desire most is love. So welcome! Open your minds and open your hearts and enjoy the magic of a new world. Take away what you will and maybe you could leave a little bit of yourself behind for us to remember you by.

All Solo ALL

It’s one world in two parts Joining hands and joining hearts It’s one world in two parts Joining hands and joining hearts Celebrate! Celebrate! The wonder of each other Celebrate! Celebrate! The wonder of each other Oceans can divide Maybe they connect Reach out to one another With friendship and respect It’s one world in two parts Joining hands and joining hearts It’s one world in two parts Joining hands and joining hearts



King Neptune (spoken) People of the land have always been interested the mermen. Oh yes, they have been telling tales about us for centuries. In fact you may have heard of the most famous mermaid of all time, the little mermaid. Have you heard of her? Well, it just so happens that she is my daughter, Coral. (Coral enters) Perhaps you would like to hear a little bit about her. Well, it was hundreds of years ago when all this took place, but not a day goes by when I don’t think of her. Yes, my little Coral. She was my youngest daughter, the tiniest, but with the biggest heart. I knew from when she was just a little girl, oh probably about your age, that she was not like the others. She was full of adventure. But she was always looking upward. Yes that’s right, always thinking and dreaming about your world. Now a young mermaid can not go above the water until she is 15 years of age and for Coral it was a very long time to wait. She didn’t have much patience for rules. Perhaps if she had been a little less brave or a little more selfish the story would have not ended as it did. Now that is not to say it has a bad ending, it is just different from what she expected. Life doesn’t always turn out the way we think it will, but that’s part of the adventure isn’t it? Well, I’m very proud of Coral, I think she made the right choice. You tell me what you think. I’ll tell you her story today, the true, of my daughter Coral, the little mermaid.

All Solo ALL

It’s one world in two parts Joining hands and joining hearts It’s one world in two parts Joining hands and joining hearts Celebrate! Celebrate! The wonder of each other There’s spice that makes us different From the seasonings above But a common thread unites us … Our eternal quest for love It’s one world, one world One world for all of us It’s one world, one world It’s one world, one world!

BLACKOUT



Scene 1: Under the sea in the Kingdom of King Neptune (As the lights come up Coral is discovered sitting on a rock waiting for her sister Shelly. Pearl enters) Pearl (entering) Coral! There you are. I wondered what happened to you after

Shelly’s birthday party. Coral Hi Pearl. I’m just waiting for Shelly to get back so she can tell me

everything she saw above the water. Pearl Coral, don’t you ever get tired of hearing about that? Coral No! Pearl My dear little sister, I can remember when you were just a baby, sitting at

fathers great tail, begging for one more story about the mortals. You should be tired of it by now.

Coral Your right, I am tired of stories. I want to see it for myself, I‘m tired of waiting, it’s not fair. Now I am the only princess who has not been out of the sea.

Pearl Coral, you know the rules. You have to wait until your 15. Coral Well, it’s a stupid rule. I bet princesses of the land don’t have such silly

rules. Pearl Everyone has rules to follow Coral. They may be different rules, but they

still have them. Besides, you only have one more year and at least you have a chance to see their world. A princess of the land could never enjoy our world.

Coral Why not? Pearl Because mortals can not live under the water. Not even for an hour. Coral Well, they’re not missing anything! Shelly (calling as she enters) Coral! Coral where are you? Coral Shelly! Here! I’m over here! Oh Shelly quick, tell me every single thing

that you saw above the water. Shelly (kidding her) I didn’t see anything, Coral. It was very boring. (She laughs)Coral Shelly that is not funny and I am not in the mood for jokes, I am very

serious about this. Shelly Okay, Okay. I saw hundreds of things, unbelievable things! Coral What was your favorite, tell me, please! Shelly Well, I guess it would be when evening comes and everything gets really

quiet. Pearl Especially, when there’s a big, full moon! Coral Oh, the moon! I can’t wait to see the moon!

Song: Longing to See Anything But Sea All Floatin on the water just gazin at the moon

Baby it’s a sight that’s sure to make you swoon – oo-oo-oo-oo-oon



Your gonna swoo oo-oo-oo-oo-oon

Underneath the water it’s never night or day Up above the sun’ll set when stars come out to play They twinkle and they glisten, some shoot across the sky A show that takes your breath away, this no one will deny

Coral Longing to see anything but sea Just how patient can a little mermaid be

All Longing to see anything but sea Just how patient can a little mermaid be

There’s chapels filled with pretty girls who sing a faithful hymn The trees are full of feathered fish who’d rather fly than swim Dogs on shore will chase and bark no matter what you do In the fields there’s great big cows who greet you with a moo

Coral (spoken) Moo? Shelly (exaggerated) MOOOOOOOOO! Coral (imitating) MOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

All (They repeat the melody, but this time with moos)

Pearl (laughing-spoken) Well, that was utterly ridiculous! Shelly Hey! That’s a good one Coral I don’t get it Shelly & Pearl You will!!

Coral Longing to see anything but sea

Just how patient can a little mermaid be All Longing to see anything but sea

Just how patient can a little mermaid be

People of the land are much like us with feet They spin around the dance floor and never miss a beat Music fill the ballroom with sweet romantic bliss While lovers seek the moonlight to sneak a goodnight kiss

Coral (Spoken) Oh Kissing! Oh how I long to kiss something other than a fish! Pearl You kiss the fish? Coral Sure! Don’t you? Pearl No Coral Oh



Coral Longing to see anything but sea Just how patient can a little mermaid be

All Longing to see anything but sea Just how patient can a little mermaid be Longing to see anything but sea Just how patient can a little mermaid be Longing to see anything but sea

BLACKOUT Scene 1B — The same spot in the garden, on Coral’s 15th Birthday, one year later (As the scene opens Coral is once again sitting in her garden. This time she is playing with two oriental fish, the three are doing a playful little dance to a variation of “Longing to See Anything But Sea”. As the dance comes to an end King Neptune enters) King N Ah, Coral, just the little mermaid I was looking for. Coral Good morning Father! King N Well, in just a few hour you will be fifteen and Coral And finally I shall have my chance to explore the world above the sea.

Isn’t it wonderful Father? Did you ever think this day would come? King N Oh yes, I knew this day would come, I’ve been worried about it for a long

time. Coral Worried? Why Father? It is not dangerous. All my sisters have been

above the sea and nothing has ever happened to them. King N Coral, you are my sixth and last daughter to make the journey. And I

never once worried about your sisters. But you are different, my dear. Coral Why? I’m as smart as they are and just as strong too, Father. I may be

small, but I’m quite complete. King N Yes, I know that. But Coral, I’ve lived a long time now and I can tell you

that things are not always the way they appear. You’ve dreamed of this day for a long time and it might not turn out the way you had hoped

Coral I’m sure it will be better than I imagined. Really Father you must not worry about me.

King N All the same, I’d like to impart to you a few pearls of wisdom that I’ve learned along the way. Consider it a birthday gift.



Song: Pearls of Wisdom King N Bear in mind things are not always as they appear

There could be more to the melody than what you first hear Eyes may be fooled with illusions of grandeur But keen sight reminds us to review what we admire Pearls of wisdom are what I have learned From life’s little lessons my scars where earned If you are wise my advice you will heed Armed with some knowledge you can seek fates lead As you travel down the road that bears your name Remember when you stumble, on yourself to place the blame Decisions may be difficult and the stakes often high But the truth is always right, to yourself you mustn’t lie Pearls of wisdom are what I have learned From life’s little lessons my scars where earned If you are wise my advice you will heed Armed with some knowledge you can seek fates lead Just know that who you are is special and fine Don’t search other kingdoms for the answer to your rhyme The only treasure that really counts is the value of your heart So make every deed you undertake a reflective work of art Pearls of wisdom are what I have learned From life’s little lessons my scars where earned If you are wise my advice you will heed Armed with some knowledge you can seek fates lead

(at the end of the number Pearl and Shelly enter with gifts an adornments for Coral, it is finally her birthday) Pearl & Shelly Happy Birthday Coral! (Coral has no patience for any fuss, she thanks them and rushes off on her long-awaited adventure. Pearl and Shelly race after her waving goodbye and wishing her well.) BLACKOUT Scene 2A: Above the sea, in the middle of the ocean



(As the lights come up we find Coral floating on top of the water in a calm sea. The sun has just begun to set and in the distance we see a large, three-mast sailing ship. Coral can hear music and laughter coming from aboard the ship. As the sky grows darker, beautiful colored lanterns are lit on the deck of the ship and a giant, full moon appears on the horizon. She is mesmerized by the ship’s breathtaking beauty and decides to get a closer look) Coral This is even more beautiful than I dreamed. First a sunset, now the moon.

And look at that beautiful ship. What is that sound I hear? It must be music. Yes, there must be party on that ship. I shall get a closer look, perhaps I shall even see some dancing.

(As Coral approaches the ship the waves are high enough that she is able to see inside the portal window. Inside she views a grand and glorious celebration. It is a birthday party for a young prince. Coral sees the prince and immediately falls in love with him. He is young like she is, maybe 16, and very handsome with big, dark eyes and a wonderful smile. It is obvious that everyone likes him and she can hear his almost musical laugher as it floats out the portal. Coral watches for some time unable to tear her eyes away from the party and especially the prince) Coral Who could that be? He is most certainly a Prince. Avery handsome

Prince! His laugher is like music and look how everyone adores him. He must surely be a wonderful person. I believe it is his birthday too!

(Soon the festivities move on to the deck as the prince and a couple sailors and two serving maids enter. They are shouting “Happy Birthday Prince James” “Long live Prince James” etc. The prince is obviously friendly with the sailors and they entertain him with a jig-like dance in which he joins in. The celebration becomes wilder and wilder and no one notices the little sea-maid watching from the waves. Fireworks are shot off the ship and appear one after another in brilliant blazes across the sky. As the celebration kicks up, so does the size of the waves. Sailor

Prince! A storm approaches!

Prince

Quickly we must set sail!

Sailor

I fear it is too late, it is upon us!

Suddenly everyone realizes that a terrible storm is approaching. Their elation turns to panic as they attempt to set sail. But the storm is upon them and the waves are rolling at an incredible speed. At first the little mermaid thinks that the storm is fun, until she realizes that the mortals are not enjoying it as much as she is. Now the storm is right over them, the sky has turned pitch black. Coral cannot even see what is happening aboard the ship, except when bolts of lightning light up the sky. The wind is blowing fiercely and then one of the mast snap in half and the ship turns over on its side. Coral now desperately looks for her prince. Finally she sees him struggling to stay on top of the water, but alas he can swim no more and he slips under the waves. At first Coral is



delighted, thinking that perhaps now he would like to come down and live underwater with her. But then she remembers that he is a mortal and that mortals cannot live beneath the ocean. She swims after him risking her own safety as pieces of the ship are floating everywhere. Finally she sees him, his eyes are closed and he is almost gone. She grabs a hold of him and brings him safely to the top of the water)

BLACKOUT Scene 2B — The next morning on a rocky beach (As the scene opens it is morning. The little mermaid stayed with the prince all through the storm and has now found a quiet little inlet with a sandy beach. There is a small white chapel nearby and she knows that she can leave him here safely, hoping that some mortals will find him. The church choir is singing hymns. She holds the prince in her arms and kisses his forehead several times hoping to awaken him, but he is still fast asleep) Coral Oh please, prince, please wake up. Wake up and look into my eyes and

fall instantly in love with me as I have you. It’s Coral, daughter of King Neptune. Yes, I am a Princess. The one who saved you from the storm or surely you would be dead. How much you remind me of my marble stature in the garden. It’s as if I’ve been waiting for you my whole life. I can not leave you without knowing that you are safe. I want you to wake up and see me and yet I am afraid that you would be scared of me and think I was a big fish.

(Suddenly the church bells begin to chime and Coral hides behind some nearby rocks. A young girl dressed in white exits from the chapel and begins to skip towards the beach still singing the hymn. Suddenly she sees the prince lying on the sand. At first she hesitates and starts to go back to the chapel, but then turns and runs to the prince. She picks up his head carefully and kisses him; he begins to move) Princess Hello? Hello, are you all right? Can you hear me? Prince Who are you? What has happened? Princess I think that you may have almost drowned, you were unconscious when I

found , I thought you were dead. Prince Then you saved me. How can I ever thank you? Princess There is no need to thank me. Come, lets get you up. Do you think you

can stand? Prince Yes, I think so. Princess Good, then I can take you to the convent. Prince The convent? Is that where you live? Princess Yes, and there are people there who can help you. (She kisses him again and he opens his eyes. Now he slowly sits up and smiles at the beautiful, young girl. She helps him up and they slowly exit. The Little Mermaid has been watching all this



from behind the rocks. Although she is relieved to see that the prince is all right, she is very sad that he does not even know that she exists. She cannot forget him and yet she does not know how she could ever approach him. For he is a mortal and she a mermaid. Feeling very sad and lonely, she returns to her home, deep in the ocean) BLACKOUT Scene 3A — Under the sea in the courtyard some days later (As the scene opens we find Coral and her two sisters Shelly and Pearl sitting in the courtyard. Coral is very sad; she sits clinging to her marble statue. Her sisters are trying hard to cheer her up, but nothing works) Pearl Coral, you have got to stop moping around. All you do is sit out here in

the garden pouting. Let’s do something. Coral No Pearl, I’m not in the mood. Pearl Why don’t we take your new seahorse out for a ride. Coral Maybe later. Shelly I know, why don’t we go down to the caves with the other mermaid and

find out some of the latest gossip. Gossip always cheers me up! Coral Shelly, I don’t think that will work for me. Shelly Well what is wrong with you? Coral Nothing. Pearl And why won’t you tell us anything about your trip above the water?

Didn’t anything interesting happen? Coral No, nothing happened. Shelly Is that why you are so sad, did it not turn out to be what you hoped for? Song: Deep Sea Blues Coral You ask me what is goin’ on

You say that something must be wrong But sisters, this I know is true-ew-ew It’s really nothin’ but the Deep Sea Blues

Shelly & Pearl She’s got the deep sea blues

Shelly She’s sittin’ here upon a rock The big hand whirls around the clock Her problems only seem to grow-oh-oh She needs some new seeds to sew

Coral I’ve go the deep sea blues



Pearl We’ve got the cure you’ve gotta take Good times are what you’ve gotta make What’s all this silly poutin’ for-or-or You know their callin’ you the bore

Coral I’ve go the deep sea blues!!!!!!

S&P (Spoken) WHY???

I’m sick of havin sandy floors Got no windows, got no doors An octopus swam in last nigh-igh-ight You know he gave me quite a fright!

Shelly & Pearl She’s got the deep sea blues

Pearl Shelly Pearl Shelly

Your clingin’ to a marble boy! We know he’s much more than a toy Sis, your actin kinda stra-a-ange Your mood has really gotta change!

Coral I’ve go the deep sea blues!!!!!!

Shelly (to Pearl, spoken) This is more serious than I thought. It’s time to pull out all the stops!

Pearl Don’t worry Coral, there’s a cure for this! Coral hold your breath and count to a hundred. Shelly, sneak around the rock and jump out and scare her. That’ll do it.

Shelly Pearl, isn’t that the cure for the hiccups?

Pearl Oh yeah, sorry!

Shelly Well, you know what I do when I’ve got the blues?

Coral No, what?

Shelly I bump them out!

(Now the music changes to a real up tempo, razzmatazz-drum rippen beat)



Shelly Bump, Bump, Bump Bump those blues away Bump, Bump, Bump Bump them out today

Sooner or later your spirits will rise Listen to me I’m older and I’m wise

Just Bump, Bump, Bump Your blues away!

(Spoken) Come on Coral try it!

All

Just Shelly

Bump, Bump, Bump Bump those blues away Bump, Bump, Bump Bump them out today

Sooner or later your spirits will rise Listen to me I’m older and I’m wise

Just Bump, Bump, Bump Your blues away!

Shelly (spoken) So, how do you feel now Coral? Any better?

Coral Yeah, a little.

Pearl Hey, I’ve got a few ideas too you know.

Shelly Really.

Pearl Yes, and I might remind you Shelly that I am older than both of you and quite wise myself

Shelly Really. We’ll, what is it that you do, oh wise one, when you have the blues?

Pearl I Shake them out!!

(singing)

Shake, Shake, Shake Shake your blues away Shake, Shake, Shake Shake them out today

When you are done, my method is clear You’ll see those blues just disappear

Just Shake, Shake, Shake Your blues away!



All

Pearl

All

Shake, Shake, Shake Shake your blues away Shake, Shake, Shake Shake them out today

When you are done, my method is clear You’ll see those blues just disappear

Just Shake, Shake, Shake Your blues away!

Bump’em out! Shak’em out! Anything you want but pout! It’s the only thing to do Say bye-bye my Deep Sea Blues!

Shelly Now don’t you feel a little better Coral?

Coral Yes, I do feel a little better

Shelly Good, now lets get down to the caves!

Pearl Go ahead Shelly, we’ll be there in a few minutes. I want to talk to Coral about something.

Shelly Oh, I’ll wait.

Pearl Shelly, I want to talk to Coral (she still doesn’t get it) Alone!!

Shelly Oh! All right I’ll see you down there (she exits)

Pearl Coral, I sent Shelly away because everyone knows that she can not keep a secret and I thought maybe there was something you want to share with someone you know you can trust.

Coral Well, there is something, if you promise to never tell a soul

Pearl I promise, I promise! What is it?

Coral Something did happen when I went above the sea

Pearl I knew it! Tell me what happened.

Coral Well, I was floating on the water and I saw the great sailing ship so I swam over and look inside and I could see all the people dancing and having a grand time

Pearl And your sad because you don’t have legs and can’t dance with them, right?

Coral Well, no. I mean there’s more



Pearl Go on then

Coral Well, I saw the most handsome Prince in the world. It was his birthday too. He was so amazing!

Pearl And your depressed because you know that will never find a Prince as fine as he that has a fishtail, right?

Coral Well, not exactly

Pearl Well what exactly is it then?

Coral I’m sad because I saved him from drowning in a terrible storm, carried him to safety and he doesn’t even know I exist. I’m in love with him!

Pearl In love with a mortal?

Coral The worst thing is that I have returned over and over to the place where I left him and he is never there. I know that he may never fall in love with a half-fish, but I would be happy just to float on the water night after night just watching him, guarding him, keeping him safe. But I don’t know how to find him.

Pearl Poor little Coral

(she is interrupted by the entrance of King Neptune)

King N Pearl, I’d like a few words with Coral alone please.

Pearl Yes father. (She exits)

Coral I’m very popular today.

King N Coral, I am very concerned about this mood that you have been in. I thought that once you had your chance to explore the upper world, that you would return to us happy.

Coral Father, I have fallen in love.

King N (Laughing) Oh, is that all. I am relieved. And who is the lucky merman?

Coral He is a Prince Father

King N Really? No wonder your so blue. From what kingdom is he?

Coral Well, actually I don’t know. Father, he is a mortal.

King N What!? Coral what are you saying?

Coral I fell in love with him that first night

King N And he loves you?

Coral Well not yet, but he will. I just have to find him and I will.

King N You won’t! Coral you don’t understand how dangerous this love can be.



Coral No father, love is beautiful.

King N Yes, I agree. But you must exercise caution. Just because something is beautiful, don’t be fooled into thinking you can’t get hurt. Look at that beautiful Coral, you where named after it. It is exquisite to look at, but if you are not careful and get too close, it will cut you to pieces.

Coral But my Prince is a good man, father

King N He is a mortal Coral and he will never love you. Please believe me. Just once, take my word for it. (Coral does not respond but he can see that she does not believe him)

Song: Loving and Letting Go

King N (Spoken to music) I thought I had all the answers I should! I’ve lived nearly 200 years. But when it comes to love and children, All that’s certain is joy . . . and tears. (Now beginning to sing softly, looking at her) Oh Coral, If I could save you just one moments pain But I know, the heart has to break before it can gain How can I let you go Knowing all that I know Knowing you won’t stay I resist that woeful day I knew this time would come, but I’m not alone All parents graduate from birth to suddenly grown The ocean’s awash with the tears Caused by each fathers fears The sea’s rise and fall in a rage While fate writes you a new page (A plaintiff cry) Coral stay! Coral stay! (Soft and resolved) . . . Coral go. You’ve earned the right, It’s just I love you so The pain of love is frightening, as it’s soothing I’m full of pride, to know the worth, of what I’m loosing I only pray I taught you well So many stories I forgot to tell



One more counsel I might impart

Follow your dreams and love with all your heart BLACKOUT Scene 3B — The next day, still in the courtyard (As the lights come up Shelly and Pearl are on-stage very excited and Coral enters)

Shelly Coral! We have great news for you, I am so excited

Coral What is it?

Pearl Shelly was talking to one of her friends down at the cave and she went above the water the same night that you first did.

Shelly She saw the storm!

Pearl And the shipwreck!

Shelly And she knows who your Prince is and where his kingdom is!

Pearl And everyone wants to help you find him!

Coral Really? That’s great . . . Wait a minute, Pearl, how did Shelly know about my prince?

Pearl Well, I guess I did mention it to her, briefly.

Coral Pearl you promised! And after what you said about Shelly not being able to keep a secret!

Shelly You said that about me?

Pearl Well, maybe I did but . . .

Coral And Shelly just how is it that all the mermaids down at the cave know about this?

Shelly Oh, yes, well I did tell my closest friends, but don’t worry they promised not to tell anyone. Maybe just a few of their closest friends.

Coral Great, now everyone knows

Pearl The point is that you can find your Prince!

Coral The point is that everyone thinks I’m a fool

Shelly No they don’t Coral. All the mermaids think you are the bravest among us. That’s why they want to help.

Coral And they really know where he is?

Pearl & Shelly Yes!



Coral Then let’s go! (The sisters rush of as King Neptune comes out of hiding. He had been listening to the whole scene and is very concerned)

King N As you can imagine I was very concerned about Coral finding her Prince. The girls meant well, it is just that they are all too young to understand the seriousness of the situation. How could I blame them, I was the same at their age.

What is a father to do? It became clear to me that I must devise some sort of distraction. And so I came up with the first annual mermaid’s ball. A party so grand that Coral would be sure to forget about her prince. Perhaps she might even meet a new prince – with fins this time.

What a fabulous idea. Sometimes I even amaze myself!

BLACKOUT Scene 3 C: Near some rocks — several months later (As the lights come up the three sisters are discovered sitting near some rocks talking)

Shelly But I don’t understand Coral. I thought this is what you wanted.

Coral Yes, it is true, at first all I wanted was to be able to sit and watch my prince everyday. I thought that would be enough, but it’s not. It makes me so sad to think that he doesn’t know who I am or that I’m the one who saved him.

Pearl Well, I think you are going to have to be satisfied with that Coral

Coral I know that if I could just talk to him everything would be fine. I know that he will love me, I can feel it.

Shelly (Laughing) Talk to him! Oh that would be a sight. (Chidding her) He would listen to your sweet voice, gaze into your eyes and then that big ol’ tail of yours would come whipping around and the prince take off running down the beach screaming.

Coral Oh this stupid tail! Why can’t I be like a real princess.

Pearl You are a real princess. Your just not a mortal, that’s all.

Coral But I want to be. (the girls start to laugh at her) Don’t laugh, I’m serious and I know that there has to be a way.

Shelly (still laughing) Well, why don’t you ask father. He’s the king and a king knows everything.



Coral Yes! Father will know! Let’s go! BLACKOUT Scene 3D: Under the sea — a few moments later (As the lights come up we see the three princesses sitting at the tail of their father who is telling stories and answering questions with great delight. Coral is very serious about this while her sisters find themselves giggling about everything. King Neptune is taking it all very lightly himself, not realizing just how serious Coral is)

King N Yes, that is right, it is not just legs that make mortals different from us, mortals have souls!

Shelly What does that mean father?

King N Well, as you know, mermen live for 300 years, after that we simply turn into foam upon the sea and fade away.

Pearl And mortals don’t

King N Oh no, a mortal has a short life here on earth, but when they die, their souls leave their bodies and transport them to another place where they live forever, as spirits.

Coral Oh father, I want a soul. (the sisters giggle)

King N Now Coral we have a good life here under the sea and I assure you 300 years is plenty of time to enjoy it.

Coral Father, isn’t there a way for a mermaid to grow a soul? (Sisters find this hysterical)

King N (Laughing) No, no, no I am afraid not. Well, actually there is one way. (A dramatic pause) If a mortal were to fall in love with say a mermaid. And I mean completely in love with her so that he loves her more than anything, including himself, and if he were to marry her, than he could share his soul with her and she would be come a mortal. But that would never happen!

Coral Why?

King N Ah, because what makes us so beautiful under the water, our tails and fins, is the very thing that mortals find ugly. And no mortal has ever fallen truly in love with a mermaid because of it.

Coral Father, is there not some way that a mermaid could get rid of her tail, if she wanted to? (sisters laugh) Couldn’t one grow legs?

King N (Now he is being very dramatic trying to scare the little mermaids. He beckons them closer) The only one who might have the power to grant such a wish is the evil fish witch (Shelly and Pearl scream)

Pearl She is wicked!



Shelly Just by mentioning her name she can put a spell on you

Coral But she has the power

King N Oh yes, many a mermaid has gone to her for help, but when they swim through her evil forest, they get caught. Her evil plants hold them so tight that they can not get away and they are never heard from again! (Shelly and Pearl scream in giddy horror but Coral is intrigued)

Well, enough story telling my little princess, it is time we get to the mermaids ball!

(The curtain opens and we are at the ball) Scene 4: In the courtyard at the mermaid’s ball (The scene takes place in the same courtyard of the castle only now it is decorated for the Grand Mermaid Ball. There is great merriment all around as all the guest sing and dance about. Some of the guests carry beautiful seahorses and they join together in a circle to form a kind of carousel. They dance and sing with great cheer and gusto; even Coral is caught up in the festivities. Coral is overjoyed with the excitement. The King is very pleased because he feels his plan has worked.



Song: The Mermaid’s Ball All Solo 1 Solo 2 All

It’s Grand! It’s Glorious! The finest sight you’ll ever see It’s Grand! It’s Glorious! You all know it’s the place to be Bring your neighbor Come one and all Gaze at the splendor Of the Mermaids Ball [Instrumental break] Invited here by A king we treasure The perfect scene for A Night of pleasure A feast for the eyes And the tummy too! Simply the finest Nothing else will do It’s Grand! It’s Glorious! The finest sight you’ll ever see It’s Grand! It’s Glorious! You all know it’s the place to be Bring your neighbor Come one and all Gaze at the splendor Of the Mermaids Ball

(Suddenly Coral hears the faint and muffled sound of a ships horn above and she remembers her beloved prince. She silently slips away from the party and sits on the edge of the stage to think about things. Finally she decides that no matter how scared she is, or how foolish her efforts may be, she must risk everything to be with the Prince. She decides to go to the dreaded Fish witch for help. Shelly sees her leaving and tries to stop her)

Shelly Coral, where are you going? Is something wrong?

Coral No, I just have something I must take care of.



Shelly (worried) But you will be back right?

Coral (after a pause) yes, of course (she starts to leave and turns back) Shelly, I love the prince and I know that he will love me. I have to follow my destiny.

Shelly Are you going to visit him?

Coral Yes.

Shelly Be careful Coral. I’ll see you later. (Coral does not answer, she just leaves)

BLACKOUT Scene 5: The Fish witches evil, enchanted forest (The scene opens in the Fish witches forest. The deadly trees, which inhabit the path to her cave, are actually alive. This is a black light scene. Actors dressed in black manipulate spiraling banners on sticks, all in fluorescent colors, that the mermaid must swim (dance) through. Dancers appear dressed as swirling whirlpools that surround her and she barely escapes them. Now she must confront the deadly trees, which have snake like tentacles that reach out and grab at everything that passes. She can see the remains of many others that have not made it through, in fact, she knows of no one who has made it through. She is about to turn back when she hears the ships horn again. Thinking of her prince she wraps her long hair around her neck and bravely swims through the forest [this is done in an exciting dance-like format]. She makes it. Once on the other side the witch’s house appears. It is made of the remains of unfortunate sailors whose ships sunk during a storm. She is first greeted by the witch’s two pet sea serpents [these are the dancers, after exiting and removing their whirlpool costumes]. They hiss at her as she approaches. Then the Fishwitch makes her grand entrance. She is a bizarre creature, more funny than scary, but definitely larger than life)

Fish witch Well, what have we here. King Neptune’s little daughter, the princess Coral. I know why you are here.

Coral You do?

Fish witch Of Course! I know everything. I know that you have fallen in love with a mortal prince and you want to shed your tail so that you can grow legs. You think that if you do this that he will love you. Silly little mermaid

Coral Can you help me?

Fish witch Oh yes, but first I must caution you. This is a very foolish thing to do.

Coral Why?



Fish witch First, there is great pain that will come with growing leg, because even though you will be the most graceful human on earth, every step you take will be like sharp sword coming through your newly grown feet.

Coral I can bear the pain.

Fish witch Second, once you lose your tail, you may never return to the sea and if the prince does not fall in love with you heart and soul, you will turn into foam on the sea the morning after he marries another

Coral But he will fall in love with. Once I am rid of my tail and I tell him who I am and how much I love him.

Fish witch Very well, but there is a price, everything comes with a price my dear.

Coral I have pearls to offer ….

Fish witch Pearls! What would I want with them?

Coral I have treasure from great ships that have sunk to the bottom of the ocean

Fish witch Oh yes, it is a treasure I want, but not one of gold or silver. I want your lovely voice!`

Coral My voice? I can’t give you that.

Fish witch Very well, than off with you. Out!

Coral But if I give you my voice, what will I have? How will I earn the love of the prince/

Fish witch My dear, you will have your lovely little figure, your soulful eyes and you will dance more beautifully than any other mortal. If this prince truly loves you, than what is a voice? (Coral does not answer and she is very unsure) I will give just a moment to make up your mind. I am very busy!

(Coral weights her options) Song: Sing to Him in Silence



Coral I will sing to him in silence And he won’t even know who I am Still I’ll sing to him in silence Then he’ll know my heart in the end Words are so fleeting They’re spoken then they’re gone Deeds transcend dreamers When moonlight kisses dawn I love you from my lips Seems shallow and vain I love you from my heart I honest and plain I will sing to him in silence And he won’t even know who I am Still I’ll sing to him in silence Then he’ll know my heart in the end I know that I won’t be alone Father’s wisdom will guide the way I only hope I listened well His trust I shall never betray Decisions are never easy But the truth is always right I have no doubt in what I feel His love is worth the fight I will sing to him in silence And he won’t even know who I am Still I’ll sing to him in silence Then he’ll know my heart in the end

(speaking to the Fish witch) Alright I will do it! (Immediately the Witch takes her voice and she can no longer speak. The Witch begins preparing Coral’s potion and sings a number (with the back up of her snakes) called “Misunderstood”, where she claims that no one really understands her, she’s just “misunderstood”.



Song: Misunderstood Fish Witch They say that I am wicked, a heart made out of stone

But everyone who loves me knows I tickle the funny bone Oh I know how to laugh, and I can even cry (aside to snakes) If I peel an onion or get a guppy in my eye I’m not so bad, I’m really kind of good It’s not that I’m so mean, I’m just misunderstood I’m just misunderstood, oh yeah Honey I’m just misunderstood Misunderstood (spoken) Oh they all talk bad about me, but when they need something, who do they come to? That’s right to scary old me. Hmm! I can grant your wish I’m not some jellyfish But baby with the fish witch There’s always a little hitch In has got out Night has got day Jailed has got free And good, well good has got…ME! I’m not so bad, I’m really kind of good It’s not that I’m so mean, I’m just misunderstood I’m just misunderstood, oh yeah Honey I’m just misunderstood Misunderstood



(spoken) Oh yes there is, it’s only right! I can’t do it for nothin’ honey. Your daddy’ll call me cruel But you’re the little fool You gave up your pretty voice Honey that was your choice (spoken) I’m fair …. I’m just tryin’ to help out. You see … I’m not so bad, I’m really kind of good It’s not that I’m so mean, I’m just misunderstood I’m just misunderstood, oh yeah Honey I’m just misunderstood Misunderstood (spoken) Now let me tell you something ….princess Good is nothin without a little bad I keep things in balance, you know you oughta be glad Your so sweet, so cutesy and petite But who’s the diva with the drink that’s gonna grow you feet (spoken) Uh? Answer me that. It’s me. It’s not like I’m a (looks at the snakes) SNAKE! Hsssssss! (The Fish witch gives Coral the potion and she drinks it. The snakes begin to dance around Coral and remove her tail exposing her newly grown legs. Coral spins off stage) You know opposites attract. Yes they do. In has got out Night has got day Jailed has got free And good, well good has got…ME! I’m not so bad, I’m really kind of good It’s not that I’m so mean, I’m just misunderstood I’m just misunderstood, oh yeah Honey I’m just misunderstood Misunderstood

BLACKOUT



Scene 6A: The steps of the princes palace (As the lights come up we see the Coral fast asleep on the steps of the palace. The Prince enters and discovers her)

Prince Hello? Are you all right? (Coral awakens) Who are you? (coral does not answer) Are you not able to speak? (Coral shakes her head) You poor thing. Are you all alone? (Coral nods) Well, fear not, my family and I shall adopt you and take care of you. Come along to the palace and I shall introduce to my parents, the king and queen. Of course I don’t know what to call you. (Coral runs to the beach and picks up a piece of coral and shows the prince that it is her name. He understands) Coral. So your name is Coral. Come and meet my family, my new little friend

(They exit as King Neptune enters for his narration) Scene 6B

King N And so it was that my little Coral shed her tail and grew legs. Now she faced the biggest challenge of her life, gaining the prince’s love. My daughters and I were very worried about her, but we had not lost hope. No not yet.

BLACKOUT Scene 6C: Outside the palace, sometime later (As the scene opens the prince is seating outside with Coral at his feet. There is entertainment for the prince’s benefit and he is enjoying himself immensely, as is the mermaid. Then a lovely servant girl comes over to the prince and begins flirting with him. Coral becomes agitated and leaps to her feet and beckons the musicians to play for her. Everyone stops what they are doing and watches the mermaid as she does a dance for the prince. Dance: Entertaining the Prince

Prince (applauding) Beautiful my little Coral. Friends, this is my favorite girl in all the kingdom. My best friend and faithful companion. If only I could be so lucky as to find a wife as lovely as her. No everyone, please, inside and let the feast begin!



(Everyone begins to exit but Coral stays behind. She goes down to water to reflect on her situation. Suddenly her two sisters, Shelly and Coral, appear near the rocks and call to her. Coral is very excited to see them and races to greet them)

Pearl Coral! Oh Coral how we have missed you.

Shelly Everyone is so sad without you

Pearl Especially father, he misses you so. Coral, how is it going with the prince?

(Coral indicates that things are fine)

Shelly We can see that he is very fond of you, but it doesn’t seem like he thinks of you as a wife.

Pearl Coral we are so worried! What are you going to do if you can’t make him fall in love with you?

(The two sisters sing a ballad version of “I’ll Sing to Him in Silence” as Coral dances and uses sign language to convey her feelings. Since she is unable to speak, the sisters translate her actions for the audience through the song) Song: Reprise-Sing to Him in Silence

Pearl Good night sweet Coral, I hope you are right about the prince.

Shelly Don’t worry, we will come and visit you every night.

Pearl Yes, together we will come up with a plan.

Shelly Goodnight Coral! (They leave as Coral waves goodbye) BLACKOUT Scene 7A: Some weeks later, outside the palace Dance As the scene opens Coral and the prince come running on stage playing a game of tag which turns into a bit of a dance. Finally they both collapse from exhaustion and the prince holds Coral in his arms as they look out to sea.



Prince Coral, you are my best friend. I don’t even know what life would be like without. In fact the only other girl that I have ever loved besides you was a girl that is almost a dream. You see I was in a shipwreck once and a beautiful young girl saved me. (Coral thinks he means her). But I will never see her again and we could never be married for she belongs to a convent. It is strange how I feel I belong with her, like some special angel brought me to her. But since I cannot marry her, I should marry you! Yes, you would make me happy

Of course mother and father have other plans. They love you my dear, but they would never agree to let me marry someone who is not a princess. There is a princess from a neighboring kingdom that they wish me to marry. She is coming to meet me today. But no! I will not marry someone I do not love. I will meet her and state that I do not love her and that I love you. My decision is made, I shall not be swayed.

(The Prince and the mermaid begin to dance again, but this time it is different; more romantic. The prince lifts the mermaid high above his head and then lowers her down. They look into each other’s eyes and are about to kiss. Suddenly a bell begins to clang and a servant rushes in to tell the prince that his parents are coming, with the neighboring King and the daughter they want him to marry. A few silent moments pass and then the princess appears)

Servant Introducing Princess Christina (It is the girl from the chapel that found the prince on the beach. The prince runs up to her, drops down to his knees)

Prince My Love, I cannot believe it is you

Princess I never thought I would see you again

Prince Everyone, this is the girl that saved me from the shipwreck. We are meant to be together, it is our destiny.



Song: Destiny

Prince I’ve been waiting for you all my life For someone to know me at first sight All at once my doubts just disappear

You appear, I see my path was right

Princess So many lips have spoken my name I never heard their voice You whisper a word and silence ends

My heart had but one choice

Both Suddenly my destiny, you and I are meant to be Finally, my destiny, veiled dreams become reality

Prince This is what fate has planned for us The solo note becomes a symphony No longer alone to face the tune Our duet is sung in harmony

Princess You are the one who lifts me up And makes me more than I am You see in me what I hope to be You’re the shepherd and I am the lamb


Prince I close my eyes and all is gone Darkness consumes the light But with your love I’ll brave the storms I no longer fear the night A weary traveler I return from the sea Broken but able to mend With your love I shall sail again On a voyage that has no end


(Coral stands alone, with her heart breaking)



Scene 7B

King N Thing certainly look bleak for poor little Coral. We were all so desperate to help her that her sister actually went to the Fish Witch for help. They sold her their hair in exchange for a potion that will let Coral become a mermaid again. But as the Fish Witch says, every wish comes with a price. And the price of this potion is a lot more than a few locks of hair.

BLACKOUT Scene 8A: The day of the wedding, outside the palace (As the scene opens Coral is alone looking out to sea. Princess Christina approaches Coral. She knows that she is very sad and she wants to set things straight)

Princess Coral, may I sit with you for a while. I really want to talk to you. I know how much you mean to the prince, he cares for you very deeply and I want you to know that I care for you too. We hope that you will always be with us.

I know this sounds strange, but I can’t help thinking that some special angel brought us together. I love him so much and I want to spend my life making him happy. Coral can I ask a favor? You are so special to us, do you think you could be my maid of honor at the wedding today and stand as a witness to our love? (Coral is touched by the her love for the prince and begins to realize how happy they will be together. She agrees adding that she will dance for them too)

Oh, yes, you will dance for us, as a wedding present? That will be wonderful. (They hug) Thank you coral, I love you.

(The princess leaves and Coral walks towards the water. Her sisters appear, now with short hair)

Shelly Coral come here, quickly. (Coral indicates their hair)

Pearl We sold it to the Fish Witch to get a potion that will make you a mermaid again. (Coral begins to thank them and rejoice)



Pearl Listen carefully Coral. Take this (she hands her a dagger)

Shelly Coral, before sunrise tomorrow, you must take this dagger and stab the prince through the heart. You will immediately become a mermaid again and then you can come home. (Coral begins shaking her head indicating that she will not do it)

Pearl You must Coral, you have no choice, it’s either him or you!

Shelly Otherwise in the morning you will turn to foam! (Coral looks at the dagger and then at her sisters and then runs off) BLACKOUT Scene 8B: That evening after the wedding King Neptune

Soon the sun set and disappeared beyond the horizon along with Coral’s dream. Yes, the Prince did indeed marry another. And now Coral must choose between her love for the Prince and her own life, before the next sunrise.

(It is the end of a great celebration that is going on after the wedding ceremony. Coral has been sitting alone watching the festivities. Now everyone is gone but the prince, the princess and Coral. The couple kisses Coral goodnight and they turn to leave. Then the princess remembers Coral’s promise)

Princess Oh Coral, what about your wedding gift to us.

Prince What gift?

Princess Coral wants to do a dance for us as our wedding gift. Do you still want to? (Coral indicates yes) Dance: Dagger Dance (Coral pulls out the poison dagger and begins a wild and exciting dance, she begins to circle the prince dagger drawn, she looks into his eyes, she raises the dagger and throws it into the water as she falls in exhaustion. The prince and princess wildly applaud and praise her but she is in somewhat of a daze.

Prince That was beautiful Coral, thank you! The three of us shall be great friends. (Coral turns away from them)



Princess What’s the matter Coral? Are you alright?

Prince She’s fine – She’s just happy for us. You are happy for us aren’t you Coral? (Coral pauses and then nods. She finally accepts that they belong together)

My little Coral – I will always love you. (He kisses her on the forehead and Coral signs “I love you” to him)

Princess Look it is almost sunrise!

Prince Let us walk you home, Coral. (Coral shakes her head no) Well then, goodnight.

Princess Goodnight Coral. (Coral hugs the princess and then the prince, holding on slightly. As they leave she walks to the edge of the water awaiting her fate)

BLACKOUT Scene 9: Moments later. A beautiful figure slowly appear on stage (these are the two dancers and the two sisters cleverly disguised) dressed in flowing white gowns. They are the spirits of air and they sing an ethereal choral of ewws and ahhs. Now Coral appears dressed much like them but she is not disguised. The spirits greet her, but Coral is confused because she still believes she is going to turn into foam on the sea.

Coral Hello?

Sp 1 Hello Coral, come join me.

Coral Are you foam on the sea too?

Sp 2 Oh no Coral, I am a the spirit of the air

Sp 3 And you are too

Coral Spirits of the air? I don’t understand. I made my choice and now I should be foam upon the sea.

Sp 1 Yes, you made your choice it’s true. But because your choice was so noble and selfless you have been rewarded

Coral Rewarded?

Sp2 Yes, for the next 300 years you shall remain with us, watching over the people of land and sea, protecting them.

Coral And then what?



SP3 At the end of 300 years you will receive what you have always wished for — a human soul.

Coral And will I be able to watch over the Prince and his new bride?

SP1 Oh yes. (She points to them) You will be their guardian angel. Now Coral is very pleased.. The curtain opens and Coral sees the prince and princess looking for her. They are very sad, realizing that she is gone. She approaches them, dances around them and comforts them. King Neptune enters, watching. King Neptune finishes his tale as Coral finishes her dance and in the end they are all at peace.

King Neptune And so my little Coral made her choice and in the end she received everything she had ever wanted, a mortal soul and the chance to protect and watch over her true love, the prince. Somehow one tiny little angel was able to bridge the gap between two worlds and make them one

I suppose we all have a destiny and for those whose hearts are big enough, fate writes a special page in the book of life. I am very proud of Coral and I know I feel a lot better knowing that she’s somewhere watching out for all of us.

Finale reprise of One World Bows

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