North Salem legend surprises the cast of 'The Little Mermaid'

NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - Imagine rehearsing a musical and looking up to see the legendary composer of the very songs you're performing sitting in the audience. 

That's exactly what happened to the North Salem Middle/High School students of "Disney's The Little Mermaid" during their Saturday rehearsal when North Salem resident Alan Menken, the EGOT-winning composer and conductor, joined them to hear them perform the songs he wrote.

The students' dreams swam into reality when Menken himself watched them bring his iconic music to life under the direction of Katie Chan Chee. When the cast performed "Under the Sea," Menken was visibly moved, reflecting on the song's origins with his late collaborator Howard Ashman. Passionate young performers performing the same song that won his first Oscar brought tears to the composer's eyes.

The cast captivated Menken during their performance. He praised the students' singing, choreography, and costumes, and shared stories about Disney and Broadway from his long career. His visit elevated the production, creating a meaningful moment of artistic connection and inspiring a new generation of performers.

Article courtesy of North Salem Central School District.