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The Little Mermaid Jr Playbill

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Celebrating the talent, passion, and creativity of the DSOSN Performing Arts Program participants, and Inclusion For All

The Orleans Hotel & Casino July 19, 2026

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE PRODUCER PETER WHITTINGHAM

On behalf of the DSOSN Board of Directors, I want to take this opportunity to welcome you to this remarkable event, the DSOSN Performing Arts Program production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

When The Little Mermaid was first presented seven months ago as the recommended stage production for this year, we were all excited for our members, but guardedly optimistic about their skills to pull off such a difficult production. While the intention was to challenge the skill levels of our members, we were still cautious about how much we should “push the envelope,” less we unintentionally frustrate their motivation. However, after a few rehearsals, the dedication demonstrated by the cast members became an inspiration and encouragement for our Director and his volunteer team of “drama instructors.” Indeed, the result of their collective efforts is what you will see here this evening: a near Broadway-style stage performance of The Little Mermaid.

The common refrain that “It takes a village” applies in its fullest meaning to the accomplishment that you will see unveil on stage this evening: None of this would have been possible without the dedication, sacrifices, and hard work of the parents, caregivers, and volunteers who are involved in this production. I want to extend my sincere appreciation to our very creative Director, Jonathan Jiminez, and his lead assistant, Jessie Miles, for the remarkable work they did to make our members believe in themselves, and even to discover some hidden talents along the way. Thanks also to our cast and volunteers for putting everything they had in every rehearsal over the past seven months… your patience and all your hard work has paid off.

Lastly, I want to express my deep appreciation to Marty Giovi , Boyd Showroom Booking Manager, Dean Coleman, Owner and CEO of SPR & Promotions (the producers of Michael Jackson, The Evolution), and Tyler Rodil, Boyd Showroom Production Manager, all of whom have collectively made it possible for our members to showcase their talents in this magnificent and world-famous venue, and the magic that you will see on stage this evening.

Thanks again to all for giving our members the opportunity to realize their dreams as stage performers.

Peter Whittingham

PETER WHITTINGHAM

Chair, DSOSN Board of Directors

P. (626) 780-5976

E. pwhittingham@dsosn.org

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR JONATHAN JIMINEZ

Words cannot express how fortunate I feel to be part of this amazing production. Over the past seven months, the members have worked very hard, memorizing their lines, singing songs, and developing their characters. It has been pure joy to watch this show come to life. I would like to thank all the individuals who have spent countless hours taking the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada Performing Arts production of The Little Mermaid from a creative idea to the professional stage production that you will see this evening. We have every confidence that you will not only enjoy the performance, but you will also fall in love with the characters.

Please feel free to applause at will, celebrate the actors’ performances with laughter and excitement, and Enjoy the show!

Jonathan Jimenez Director, DSOSN Performing Arts Program P. (702) 670-9218 E. Jonathanj@dsosn.org

THE HEART OF THE LITTLE MERMAID

Ariel’s longing to be “part of that world” mirrors our universal desire to belong and be understood. Flounder reminds us of the supportive friends who lift us up, while Ursula reflects the challenges and doubts we all face. The Mersisters embody the community that celebrates us, and King Triton represents the protective love learning to let us grow.

Together, they show that everyone has a place, a purpose, and a story worth sharing.

PRODUCTION TEAM

COSTUME DESIGNERS & CHANGES

Barbara Craddock, Grace Turano, Mary Harris, Claudia Rojas

SET AND PROPS

April O’Brian, Glenn Snyder, Kathy Treants, Marilyn Greenblatt, Rebecca McCollom, Adriana Felix, Bill Remaley, Veronica Fiscus

CHOREOGRAPHY

Jessie Miles, Ella Youngs

TICKET SALES DIRECTOR

Belinda Whittingham

AUDIO

Salina Martínez

PROMOTIONAL TEAM

Teresa Klem, Mignon Lazatin

PRODUCER

Peter Whittingham DIRECTOR

Jonathan Jimenez

EVENT CREW

STAGEHANDS

Jolina Harris, Karen Scroggins, Kristina Martinez, Mary Josephson

UNDER SEACHORUS

Camila Williams, Kathy Solano, Rebecca McCollom, Vivian Frost

SAILORS

Dani Duriano, Natalie Thompson, Victory Hernandez

SEAGULLS

Joan Sahagun, Michele Sanchez

MERSISTERS

Cindy Province, Mona Lochner

VILLAINS

Leigh Acosta

LEADS/STAGE RIGHT MANAGER

Lynda Ortiz

LEADS/STAGE LEFT MANAGER

Suzi Frost

SCENES & SONGS

ACT 1

SCENE 1: The Ocean Surface

Ariel see Prince Eric and falls in love

“Fathoms Below” – Sailors, Prince Eric, & Grimsby

SCENE 2: King Triton’s Court

Celebration concert for King Triton “Daughters of Triton” – Mersisters

SCENE 3: The Beach

Ariel found “human stuff” found Scuttle, an expert in all things human “Human Stuff” – Scuttle, Gulls, & Ariel

SCENE 4: Ursula’s Lair

Ursula, Jetsam, and Flotsam plot getting back at King Triton for vanishing her

SCENE 5: King Triton’s Court

King Triton and Ariel argues about Ariel going up the surface

SCENE 6: Ariel’s Grotto

Sebastian finds out about Ariel’s knick-knacks

“Part of Your World” – Ariel

“Under the Sea” – Sebastian & Sea Creatures

Memorable Line No. 1

“She has very ssssserious problem… Who will help her get her man?”

SCENES & SONGS

SCENE 7: Prince Eric’s Ship

Prince Eric, Grimsby, and the sailors encountered a storm. Prince Eric got tossed overboard, and Ariel races to save him.

SCENE 8: The Beach

Ariel gazes into Prince Eric’s eyes — interrupted by Eric’s attendant, Grimsby.

SCENE 9: King Triton’s Court

The Mersisters grill Flounder about Ariel’s odd behavior.

“She’s In Love” – Mersisters, Flounder

SCENE 10: Ariel’s Grotto

King Triton found out about Ariel saving a human… Jetsam and Flotsam took Ariel to the Sea Witch.

SCENE 11: Ursula’s Lair

Ariel tells Ursula she’s in love with a human.

“Poor Unfortunate Souls” – Ursula, Ariel

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE DSOSN PERFORMING ARTS STAGE PRODUCTION OF LITTLE MERMAID:

45 emerging performers all diagnosed with a disability

SCENES & SONGS

ACT 2

SCENE 12: The Beach

Flounder sees Ariel with legs for the first time… Prince Eric approached Ariel and brings her to the palace. Sebastian follows to protect Ariel.

SCENE 13: The Palace Kitchen

Sebastian accidentally ends up in the palace kitchen, resulting in a battle for survival against the eccentric, seafood-cooking Chef Louis.

“Les Poissons” – Chef Louis

SCENE 14: The Palace Hall

Prince Eric is determined to find other ways to communicate with this enchanting girl but is still determined to find the mysterious voice.

“One Step Closer” – Prince Eric, Ariel

SCENE 15: The Lagoon

Prince Eric takes Ariel on a boat ride through the lagoon and Sebastian and the lagoon creatures serenade Ariel and Prince Eric.

“Kiss the Girl” – Sebastian, Lagoon Animals

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE

DSOSN PERFORMING ARTS STAGE

PRODUCTION OF LITTLE MERMAID:

62 hours of rehearsals over a seven-month period

SCENES & SONGS

SCENE 16: The Palace Hall

Grimsby arranges a singing contest to locate the owner of the mysterious voice.

“The Contest” – Grimsby, Princesses

Ursula barges in as the sun sets and the spell breaks, turning Ariel back into a mermaid. King Triton trades his trident for Ariel’s freedom.

SCENE 17: Ursula’s Lair

Ursula unleashes the trident’s power. Eric tries to stop her, but the magic overwhelms her, and she creates a whirlpool that destroys her and her eels.

“Poor Unfortunate Souls (Reprise)” – Ursula

SCENE 18: The Ocean Surface

Ariel’s voice is restored, she retrieves the trident, and brings it back to her dad, King Triton, who grants her wish and transforms her tail into legs.

SCENE 19: The Beach

Ariel reunites with Prince Eric, and the cast celebrates her new beginning with a joyful finale under the sea.

Memorable Line No. 2

“She’s got legs! Do you know what her father would say? I’ll tell you what her father would say…
HE’S GONNA KILL HIMSELF A CRAB!!”

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE DSOSN PERFORMING ARTS STAGE

PRODUCTION OF LITTLE MERMAID: 19 scenes; 45 tracks; all put together by 35 extraordinary volunteers

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Raina (Ariel) loves acting, singing, and being social with everyone around her. She’s active in Special Olympics, DSOSN programs, and Las Vegas adaptive recreation, and she’s thrilled to take the stage as Ariel.

Robert (Prince Eric) is excited to perform in this year’s production. He loves singing Elvis songs and spending time with friends both in person and online. His smile is contagious, and his Elvis performances are unforgettable.

Meadow (Ursula) shines on stage as Ursula, inspired by her big dreams of performing on Broadway. She loves singing, dancing, and spending time with family and friends. She also stays active through swimming, basket‑ ball, and bowling.

Raina Miller
Robert Emerick
Meadow Frost

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Aliah (Flotsam) shines in her comfort zones of singing, dancing, and acting. As Flotsam, she steps into the spotlight with confidence and energy, bringing the sinister eel to life. The moment she hears “Action!”, her talent and vibrant personality light up the stage.

Sophia (Jetsam) is an energetic 27‑year‑old who loves music, dancing, and writing. The DSOSN Performing Arts program has given her a creative outlet to express herself and continue challenging her abilities.

Semario (Sebastian) loves being part of DSOSN and bringing Sebastian the crab to life on stage. He enjoys performing in shows and creating great memories with his DSOSN friends.

Aliah Vital
Sophia Whittingham
Semario McNamer

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Chris (Flounder) has been part of DSOSN since 2015. He’s performed in The Lion King, Grease, and Variety Shows. He loves spend‑ ing time with his DSOSN friends while staying active in sports like bowling, basketball, base ball, and Special Olympics events. But above all, dancing is his first love.

Matt (Scuttle) loves being on stage with his DSOSN friends. An “OG” DSOSN member, he’s performed in every DSOSN play and show, plus two Super Summer Theatre produc tions, and he enjoys WWE, country concerts, and Disneyland. He proudly dedicates this performance to his dad, Bill, one of DSOSN’s founding members whom he recently lost.

Billy (King Triton) likes to dance, play sports, and spend time with his friends and family. He brings great energy and joy to every DSOSN activity.

Chris Panaguiton
Matthew Fiscus
Billy Klem

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Danely (Seahorse) loves dancing, spending time with friends, and expressing herself on stage. She’s had a great time rehearsing and getting to know her castmates. Her favorite hobbies include singing, watching movies, and trying new foods—especially big cheeseburgers.

Anthony (Grimsby) 38, 38, has lived in Las Vegas since 2003 and with his mom, Lori Lane, since 2010. He’s an exceptional Special Olympics Nevada athlete and a community athlete leader. He also plays baseball in Miracle League. Wanting to explore his creative side, he joined the DSOSN Performing Arts program and has been thriving, living his best life.

Emma (Carlotta) loves music and dancing and can often be found singing along to her favorite artist, Toby Mac. She also enjoys spending time with her miniature schnauzer, Lily.

Danely Harrington
Anthony Pendleton
Emma Hawe

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Jimmy (Chef Louie) is DSOSN’s senior ambassador and has been involved in Special Olympics since age five. DSOSN is his second home, and he loves being active and spending time with his friends.

Miranda (Attina) has loved performing since she was young, often putting on surprise shows for her family. She’s excited to bring Attina to life in The Little Mermaid

Marissa (Aquata) is 34 years old and from Olympia, WA. She has 20 years of choir experience as a soprano and one year of high‑school drama. She loves to sing and dance and is excited to be part of this production.

Jimmy Meinke
Miranda Snyder
Marissa Middleton

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Malorie (Adella) is 23 years old and excited to play one of Ariel’s Mersisters. She loves to sing and dance and is thrilled to be part of this production.

Brianne (Andrina) describes herself as smart, talented, and beautiful. She works hard to give her best on stage and loves being part of the Performing Arts Program. She hopes to play a leading role in a future show.

Angelina (Arista) has been part of DSOSN’s Performing Arts Program for over three years and loves every moment on stage. She’s performed in The Lion King, Best Day Ever, and Grease, and now shines as Arista in The Little Mermaid. Her favorite part is spending time with her DSOSN friends.

Malorie Moreno
Brianne Treants
Angelina Martinez

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Alana (Alana) is thrilled to play one of Ariel’s Mersisters in The Little Mermaid Jr. She loves singing and dancing, and her favorite part has been rehearsing with friends. She thanks everyone for their support.

Sandra (Narrator 3) is a social butterfly who loves meeting new people and making everyone feel welcome. She enjoys dancing, spending time with friends, and bringing smiles wherever she goes.

Nikki (Narrator 1) is a confident DSOSN Ambassador who believes she’s capable of great things. She’s proven it through her performances in The Lion King, Grease, and DSOSN’s Variety Shows.

Alana Thurer
Sandra Josephson
Nikki Lee

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Kristy (Narrator 4) is fun‑loving and outgoing, and she enjoys staying active and spending time with people she cares about. She loves helping tell the story on stage and making memories with friends and animals.

Alexa (Narrator 2) loves music and all things Disney, and she brings that joy into everything she does. She’s grateful for the support of her family, friends, DSOSN, and The Gardner Foundation.

Yahir (Pilot) loves singing, dancing, and especially playing video games—his favorite hobby. When he’s not gaming, he enjoys volunteering and helping others. He’s excited to bring his captain role to life on stage.

Kristy Sepper
Alexa Phillips
Yahir Navarro

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Luis (Sailor) loves dancing, coloring, and drawing, and he enjoys spending time with his DSOSN friends. He’s excited to bring his sailor role to life on stage.

Owen (Sailor) is thrilled to set sail in The Little Mermaid Jr. His DSOSN credits include a Flying Monkey in The Wizard of Oz , a hyena in The Lion King , and a T‑Bird in Grease .

Hunter (Sailor) is excited to set sail in this production and loves making people smile. He enjoys Special Olympics, listening to Michael Jackson, and watching Scooby‑Doo shows and movies.

Luis Bon
John Larson “Owen”
Hunter Spilsbury

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Edwin (Sailor) loves collecting hats, even if he usually only takes one out with him. He also enjoys swimming on warm summer days and being part of DSOSN’s Performing Arts fun.

D’Angelo Lopez

Darian Duriano

D’Angelo (Sailor) a very happy camper! Loves sports, travel, sing, social media. He likes to set goals and work his best to make his dreams come true. He loves God, family and friends.

Darian (Sailor) is a sun‑seeking foodie at heart, always jammin’ to island vibes with sand between his toes and a sunset on the horizon. He finds magic in Disney and flavor in every bite.

Edwin Solano

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Rianne (Seagull) is excited to join her second DSOSN play after The Lion King . She enjoys going to the mall, bowling with friends, and traveling with her family. She’s grateful to DSOSN, her family, and the cast for this wonderful experience.

Rayona (Seagull) loves singing, dancing, and being the life of the party. She enjoys performing in The Little Mermaid Jr and having fun with her DSOSN friends.

Jose (Seagull) is 30 years old and loves playing computer games, basketball, and bowling. This is his first DSOSN play, and he’s having a great time performing with the cast.

Rianne Areneta
Rayona Sykes
Jose Santana

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Jayana (Seagull) is thrilled to return to DSOSN’s stage for The Little Mermaid Jr. She’s performed in The Wizard of Oz , The Lion King , and Grease , and also shines as a cheerleader. She dedicates this performance to her dad, who is cheering her on from overseas.

Andrew (Seagull) lives life to the fullest and believes in working hard and staying strong. He loves spending time with friends and family and enjoys being part of the DSOSN community.

Amy (Seagull) loves singing, dancing, and spending time at the beach. She’s friendly with everyone she meets and brings bright, joyful energy to every DSOSN performance.

Jayana Wiehe
Andrew Theony
Amy Escobedo

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Will (Undersea Chorus) is 21 years old and loves entertaining his family with singing, dancing, and jokes. He’s a devoted Vegas Golden Knights and Los Angeles Dodgers fan who never misses a hockey game. In his downtime, he enjoys TV and movies from the comfort of his recliner in his VGK man cave.

Taylour (Undersea Chorus) loves performing and is excited to be part of The Little Mermaid Jr . Dancing and singing make her heart happy, and she’s loved every moment of her first DSOSN stage role.

Raina (Undersea Chorus) loves doing family activities, going shopping, and adding new bracelets to her collection. She enjoys dancing, having fun with family and friends, and sharing her happiness through her big smile.

Will Anderson
Taylour Rowsell
Raina Hedge

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Lina (Undersea Chorus) is 15 years old and loves the good things in life—listening to music, dancing, going to the movies, and, like many teens her age, shopping.

Justin (Undersea Chorus) enjoys water activities, traveling, music, and good food. He’s having a wonderful time performing with this Little Mermaid cast and loves being part of DSOSN’s theater family.

Erin (Undersea Chorus) loves attending concerts, dancing, and listening to the Grateful Dead with her brother Sean. She also enjoys hanging out with friends and cheering at sporting events — she’s a proud Running Rebels basketball fan.

Lina Donis
Justin Craddock
Erin McCollom

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. CAST BIO

Debbie (Undersea Chorus) is outgoing and loves helping people and traveling, especially to Italy to visit her grandparents. She’s passionate about dancing, and DSOSN has provided a great opportunity to fulfill that passion.

Cathleen (Red Fish) is excited to make a splash in The Little Mermaid Jr. This is her second DSOSN production after playing a Hyena in The Lion King. She loves dancing, making TikTok videos, and dedicates this performance to her mom and grandma.

Amari (Undersea Chorus) loves dance and music, especially Bruno Mars and Big Time Rush. She enjoys dancing, gaming, painting, and being part of the Performing Arts Program.

Debbie Cernuto
Cathleen Li
Amari Collins

ABOUT THE DSOSN PERFORMING ARTS PROGRAM

The Performing Arts Program allows DSOSN members to maximize and showcase their artistic skills and abilities, under the guidance and direction of trained professionals.

In a structured setting with coordinated training and scheduled rehearsals every Wednesday, participants are continuously preparing for two major presentations each year: a stage production (the adaptation of a stage play) in the summer, and a variety show (singing, skits, dancing, etc.) in the Christmas season. In addition to improving their confidence to perform in front of an audience, the Performing Arts Program creates an environment where participants learn how to work together as part of a team, while developing their verbal communication skills.

Founded in 1987, the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada (DSOSN) is a 501 (c) (3) organization serving people and their families in Southern Nevada who are diagnosed with Down syndrome and other intellectual developmental disabilities. It offers an array of recreational and impactful programs, all at no cost to its members.

Aimed at meeting the critical needs of its service population, DSOSN also fosters a constructive perception of Down syndrome through its three Core Pillars: Education, Employment, and Independent Living. To prepare its members to integrate into these areas of life in society, DSOSN has developed and implemented programs that are designed to maximize the potential of its members in the areas of self - awareness, self - advocacy, and self - confidence.

To learn more about DSOSN, please visit their website at dsosn.org .

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