Actors prepare for 'The Little Mermaid'

Get ready to flap your fins and dig out your seashells.

Twenty-six local children with Osceola Children's Theatre are hard at work rehearsing for "The Little Mermaid," a musical production that will be performed on the Clarke High School auditorium stage this Friday and Saturday.

Director Kathy Kooiker began working with the youths in early February, and said this program will delight both children and adults with the famous Hans Christian Anderson story of the mermaid who wants to become human when she falls in love with a prince.

The actors, whose ages range from four to 12, will keep the audience entertained for the hour-long show as King Neptune forbids his daughter to go above the sea, but she convinces her guards to make an exception, which proves costly.

Odessa, Queen of the Humans, uses her evil magic to take the mermaid's voice and begins her quest to become Queen of the Sea.

Kooiker said she encourages all parents and grandparents to share this experience with their children, and even adults will find great joy in the story and performances.

"If you want an evening of smiles and laughter, please join us," Kooiker said.

The show begins at 7 p.m. and doors open at 6:30 p.m. with first-come, first-served seating.

The performance is a little more than an hour in length, and Kooiker said it is perfect for both young and seasoned audience members.