By Jeanni Ritchie
September brought a wave of musical theatre to Cenla stages, from Disney favorites to a splash of Nickelodeon. Three local theatre organizations filled their houses with color, music, and incredible talent.
Lagniappe Theatre: The Little Mermaid
Lagniappe Theatre’s The Little Mermaid welcomed audiences of all ages with a multi-generational cast that captured the magic of Disney’s undersea world. Talon Dearborne shone as Ariel, her Part of Your World both tender and soaring, while Katoya Flowers brought power and humor to Ursula. From the splashy spectacle of Under the Sea to the finale where Ariel found her voice and her happily-ever-after, the show delivered the kind of joy and wonder that made it a perfect family outing.
Looking Ahead: Descendants the Musical
ASH Theatre: The SpongeBob Musical
ASH Theatre’s spirited production of Nickelodeon’s The SpongeBob Musical kicked off the school year with laughter, color, and community pride. Lorelei Bolen led the way as SpongeBob, bringing boundless energy to the role, while Calleigh Kress sparkled as Pearl Krabs in her musical number Daddy Knows Best. At intermission, I caught up with freshman Fletcher Murphy, who shared how thrilled he was to be part of ASH Theatre’s family in his first year. Under the direction of Melissa Hunter, the show transformed recycled materials into imaginative sets, proving that creativity and resourcefulness could shine as brightly as any Broadway spectacle.
Looking Ahead: 10 Ways to Survive the Holidays, Holiday Showcase, Suffs, Hadestown
Bolton Academy: Matilda Jr.
Bolton Academy’s Matilda Jr. closed out the month with wit, energy, and plenty of “revolting children.” Callie McCalmont was absolutely adorable in the title role, her Matilda both clever and full of heart. Maximus Flatt earned big laughs as Bruce in the raucous cake-eating number, one of the show’s most memorable highlights.
This production also stood out with its creative gender-swapped casting: Jerome Burgess relished every over-the-top moment as the tyrannical Miss Trunchbull, while Sarah Arnold brought warmth and grace to Miss Honey. Together with a spirited young ensemble, they captured both the humor and the heart of Roald Dahl’s story, leaving audiences grinning and cheering.
Looking Ahead: Legally Blonde Jr. the Musical
From a Disney princess to a pineapple under the sea, September proved that Cenla stages are alive with creativity and heart. With groups like these, along with Pineville High Theatre, Spectral Sisters Productions, City Park Players, and more, talent abounds in Central Louisiana — and I’ll be bringing you the scoop from it all this season.
Jeanni Ritchie is a contributing journalist from Central Louisiana. She can be reached at jeanniritchie54@gmail.com.
