Swimming “Under the Sea” at Tampa Theatre

And even if you didn’t know the words by heart, it was no big deal: The lyrics were up on the screen to follow along with. When Sebastian the Crab began singing to Ariel the advantages of living “Under the Sea,” you could feel and hear the excitement in the theater (possibly because it is Mermaid’s most instantly recognizable tune, and one that little boys and girls can sing with abandon in their best Jamaican accent.) That song has long been my favorite from the film (though, after last night, I’ve found myself humming the other gems, including “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” “Part of Your World” and “Kiss the Girl.”


But beyond enjoying the music, we all rediscovered just how good The Little Mermaid is as a movie for children and adults alike. Last night was a lovely, enchanting experience, one that we won’t soon forget. Our group left Tampa Theatre with spirits uplifted, singing well into the evening.


“Life is the bubbles” indeed, Sebastian.

Last night, a small group of us from Creative Loafing (well, three, and an honorary member) attended Tampa Theatre’s Sing-a-Long Little Mermaid. While staff writer Alex Pickett and I were enthused about the event, our excitement was exceeded by that of our female companions, Editorial Assistant Franki Weddington and WMNF contributor Emily Reddy, both of whom know every song in the film by heart.Ariel and Sebastian in The Little Mermaid

As we had expected, most of those in attendance were parents and their small children, many of whom had dressed up for the special occasion as their favorite character. But our mini-entourage, having fond memories of seeing the film when we were, uh, younger, was also giddy for the chance to croon — without fear of reproach — some of the best songs in any Disney film.

WE LOVE OUR READERS!

Since 1988, CL Tampa Bay has served as the free, independent voice of Tampa Bay, and we want to keep it that way.

Becoming a CL Tampa Bay Supporter for as little as $5 a month allows us to continue offering readers access to our coverage of local news, food, nightlife, events, and culture with no paywalls.

Join today because you love us, too.

Scroll to read more Local Arts articles

Join Creative Loafing Tampa Bay Newsletters

Subscribe now to get the latest news delivered right to your inbox.