NEW YORK—Before Disney films its live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid,” ABC will take a crack at it with a live production starring the “Moana” voice actress as Ariel.
The production will star Auli’i Cravalho as Ariel, the titular young heroine who makes the Faustian deal to trade in her voice for legs that will allow her to walk on land and find her true love, and Queen Latifah as the evil sea witch Ursula who brokers such an arrangement. Reggae star Shaggy will voice Sebastian, the meddling crustacean who warns Ariel that it’s safer to stay “under the sea.” More casting announcements will come soon.
ABC Chief: ‘Little Mermaid’ Live Musical Will Be Disney Plus Launchpad https://t.co/GjfqlwYxbs
— Variety (@Variety) August 6, 2019
Hamish Hamilton, who is known for his work on Super Bowl halftime shows starring the likes of Beyoncé and Lady Gaga, will direct the film and also serve as an executive producer. According to a release provided to CNN, the production is being described as a “hybrid format” that will include intricate sets and costumes.
The original movie earned three Oscar nominations. It included the voices of Jodi Benson as Ariel, Pat Carroll as Ursula, and Samuel E. Wright as Sebastian. The Broadway adaptation starred Sierra Boggess as Ariel, Sherie Rene Scott as Ursula, and Tituss Burgess as Sebastian and was nominated for two Tony Awards.
The music will be from the original cartoon film as well as the Tony Award-winning Broadway show.
“The Wonderful World of Disney presents The Little Mermaid Live!” will air November 5 on ABC. It is not to be confused with Disney’s own live-action cinematic remake of “The Little Mermaid,” which will star Halle Bailey as Ariel. Bailey is half of the contemporary R&B sister duo Chloe x Halle.
The cartoon is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
The CNN Wire and The Associated Press contribute to this content.
