Character Breakdowns for The Little Mermaid Jr.:

A Guide for Parents

Audition day is an exciting opportunity for your child to shine and explore the magic of theater! Whether your performer dreams of being Ariel or loves the humor of Scuttle, every role in The Little Mermaid Jr. is essential to creating a vibrant, unforgettable show. Below is a guide to help you and your child prepare for auditions while embracing the joy of discovering all the wonderful characters in this production.

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NOTE: DAY 1 we will be doing our DANCE AUDITION as well as Introductions and teaching the Vocal Audition Cuts that our students will audition with on DAY 2. 

Ariel

• Description: Ariel is the adventurous and curious mermaid who dreams of living in the human world. She is full of wonder and determination, making her the heart of the story.

• Vocal Range: Bb3–Eb5

• Key Songs: “Part of Your World,”

• Parent Tips: Encourage your child to practice singing with emotion and to connect with Ariel’s curiosity and longing. Remind them that Ariel is a great choice if they love singing and expressive movement.

• AUDITION SONG: Part of Your World Aud

Prince Eric

• Description: A kind and adventurous prince who dreams of finding the girl with the beautiful voice who saved him.

• Vocal Range: B3–D5

• Key Songs: “One Step Closer”

• Parent Tips: Help your child practice confidence and warmth in their performance. Eric is perfect for kids who love storytelling and playing a charming, heroic character.

• AUDITION SONG: One Step Closer Aud

Sebastian

• Description: King Triton’s loyal advisor and court composer, Sebastian is a hilarious, musical crab tasked with keeping Ariel out of trouble.

• Vocal Range: Bb3–D5

• Key Songs: “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl”

• Parent Tips: Work with your child on comedic timing and rhythm. If they enjoy bringing humor and energy to the stage, Sebastian is a fantastic choice.

• AUDITION SONG: Under the Sea Aud

Ursula

• Description: The cunning sea witch who loves drama and uses her charm and magic to manipulate others. Ursula is bold, theatrical, and larger than life.

• Vocal Range: F3–C#5

• Key Songs: “Poor Unfortunate Souls”

• Parent Tips: Encourage your child to embrace confidence and drama in their performance. Ursula is ideal for kids who want to showcase strong acting and powerful vocals.

• AUDITION SONG: Poor Unfortunate Souls Aud

Flounder

• Description: Ariel’s loyal best friend, a sweet and slightly timid tropical fish who supports her dreams.

• Vocal Range: G3–G4

• Key Songs: “She’s in Love”

• Parent Tips: Flounder is a great choice for kids with a light, clear singing voice and who enjoy playing a kind-hearted, supportive character.

• AUDITION SONG: She's in Love Aud

Scuttle

• Description: A quirky seagull who prides himself on being an “expert” on human artifacts.

• Vocal Range: B3–G4

• Key Songs: “Human Stuff”

• Parent Tips: Help your child practice physical comedy and playful delivery. Scuttle is perfect for kids who love making people laugh.

• AUDITION SONG: Human Stuff Aud

King Triton

• Description: Ariel’s father and the powerful ruler of the sea, who struggles to balance his royal duties and his love for his daughter.

• Key Songs: No solo singing required

• Parent Tips: Encourage your child to practice a regal and authoritative tone. King Triton suits kids who want to play a strong and loving character.

• AUDITION SONG: Under the Sea Aud

Flotsam and Jetsam

• Description: Ursula’s sly and sinister eel henchmen, who help her carry out her plans.

• Vocal Range: C4–C#5

• Key Songs: “Poor Unfortunate Souls”

• Parent Tips: These roles are excellent for kids who enjoy playing mischievous or spooky characters. Synchronized movement and a sense of menace make these roles fun and memorable.

• AUDITION SONG: Poor Unfortunate Souls Aud

Grimsby

• Description: Prince Eric’s proper and practical valet, who encourages him to follow his royal duties.

• Vocal Range: E4–C5

• Key Songs: “Fathoms Below,” “The Contest”

• Parent Tips: Grimsby is a wonderful role for kids who have a natural sense of humor and enjoy subtle comedic moments.

• AUDITION SONG: The Contest Aud

Chef Louis

• Description: The palace chef who leads the humorous chase scene with Sebastian during “Les Poissons.”

• Vocal Range: A3–C5

• Key Songs: “Les Poissons”

• Parent Tips: Help your child lean into big, bold expressions and physical comedy. Chef Louis is perfect for kids who love over-the-top, funny roles.

• AUDITION SONG: Les Poissons Aud

Carlotta

• Description: The kind and nurturing housekeeper in Prince Eric’s palace who helps Ariel adjust to human life.

• Key Songs: No solo singing required

• Parent Tips: Encourage your child to bring warmth and care to their acting. This is a wonderful role for kids who want to showcase their acting skills.

• AUDITION SONG: Under the Sea Aud

The Mersisters

• Description: The Mersisters (Aquata, Andrina, Arista, Atina, Adella, and Alana) are a fun and lively ensemble. They love performing together and bring personality and harmony to their scenes. Each sister has a distinct flair, whether it's being bossy, bubbly, romantic, or stylish.

• Vocal Range: G3–G5

• Key Songs: “She’s in Love”

• Parent Tips:

  • Encourage your child to explore playful and expressive acting while blending their voice beautifully with the group.

  • These roles are perfect for performers who enjoy working as part of a team and showcasing their unique personalities.

  • Remind your child that the Mersisters are essential to creating the vibrant, underwater world and often steal the show with their humor and charm.

• AUDITION SONG: She's in Love Aud

The Princesses

• Description: Six suitors for Prince Eric, each singing a solo line in “The Contest.”

• Key Songs: “The Contest”

• Parent Tips: These are great roles for kids who love singing and enjoy playing comedic characters. Each princess can bring her own unique flair.

• AUDITION SONG: She's in Love Aud

Pilot

• Description: The ship’s captain, who serves Prince Eric with authority and skill.

• Vocal Range: Bb3–C5

• Key Songs: “Fathoms Below”

• Parent Tips: Pilot is a strong choice for kids who want to play a commanding, confident role and show off a little vocals.

• AUDITION SONG: The Contest Aud

Sea Horse

• Description: King Triton’s herald, responsible for making announcements in the underwater kingdom.

• Key Songs: No solo singing required

• Parent Tips: This role is great for kids who have clear diction and a confident stage presence.

• AUDITION SONG: Under the Sea Aud

Gulls

• Description: Scuttle’s flock of fun-loving seagull friends.

• Key Songs: “Human Stuff”

• Parent Tips: Encourage your child to embrace their silly side and focus on group energy and comedic timing.

• AUDITION SONG: Human Stuff Aud

Chefs

• Description: Part of the palace staff who join Chef Louis in the hilarious “Les Poissons” number.

• Key Songs: “Les Poissons”

• Parent Tips: Perfect for kids who love physical comedy and group choreography.

• AUDITION SONG: Les Poissons Aud

Ensemble

• Description: Includes Sea Creatures, Lagoon Animals, Sailors, and more. The ensemble brings the magical worlds of land and sea to life.

• Key Songs: “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl,” “Finale”

• Parent Tips: Ensemble roles are vital to the show. Encourage your child to be expressive and bring energy to group scenes.

• AUDITION SONG: Under the Sea Aud

General Tips for Parents

Auditioning is an exciting experience for your child, and your encouragement will help them approach it with confidence and joy. Here’s how you can best support your performer:

1. Explore All Roles

• Help your child understand that every role in The Little Mermaid Jr. is important. The Mersisters, for example, play a key role in setting the tone of Ariel’s world and entertaining the audience with their humor and charm.

• Keep an open mind and encourage your child to see the fun in portraying any character. Emphasize that being part of an ensemble is just as magical as playing a lead role.

2. Practice Together

• Spend time helping your child rehearse their lines and songs with confidence and expression.

• Rehearse harmonies or group numbers together if possible, encouraging them to listen carefully and blend their voice with others.

3. Celebrate the Process

• Remind your child that auditions are about having fun and showing their personality, not about perfection.

• Praise their effort and courage in auditioning, regardless of the outcome.

4. Be Prepared for Audition Week

• Vocal Auditions: The audition cuts for each character will be posted throughout the week. We will teach the audition cuts to every student, so they’ll have time to practice at home leading up to the vocal audition.

• Dance Auditions: The dance audition will happen on Day 1. Please dress your performer in comfortable clothes they can move in and closed-toe shoes (no sandals or boots). The dance will be taught live and is designed to be fun and beginner-friendly.

• Encourage Practice at Home: Make a schedule or routine for your child to practice their audition materials without feeling overwhelmed. Keep it light and enjoyable!