OLIVEHURST, CA (MPG) - Lindhurst High School is ready to make a splash with Disney’s “The Little Mermaid, Jr.” - the school’s first live theater production since 2019. The journey to bring this vibrant show to life has been full of unexpected adventures for director Christina Sleigh-Garcia, who has been a staple at Lindhurst High for well over a decade.

“It felt right this year to do a show,” said Garcia. “I had students asking for it, I had some help from some wonderful colleagues and, thanks to Prop 28 funding, funds to afford a show.”

Garcia, who also serves as the school’s Band and Choir teacher, explained that prior to the Covid-19 pandemic the school had successfully staged four shows. As a lifelong lover of musical theater, Garcia desired to bring performing arts opportunities to the student body of Lindhurst. Prior to Prop 28 funding, much of the production expenses came from Garcia’s own pocket, but the practicalities of this were complicated when she gained a family. In the winter of 2019, Garcia took some time to explore her new role as a mother, not knowing a global pandemic was right around the corner.

“Life changed for me and then the world in 2019, and coming back has taken some adjustments,” said Garcia. “But I have wonderful students who have put a lot of effort and time into making this production come to life and I’m really proud that we took on the ‘tail’ of ‘The Little Mermaid’ as our return show.”

“The Little Mermaid, Jr.” follows the beloved tale of Ariel, a young mermaid who dreams of living on land. Based on the 1989 Disney animated movie and the 2008 Broadway adaptation, this junior musical features all of the iconic songs from the film as well as three new songs from the Broadway show.

Lindhurst’s production will run April 3 to 5, with evening performances at 7 p.m. and a special matinee on April 5 at 2 p.m. All performances will take place in the C Building Theatre (C106) at Lindhurst High School, with tickets available for a suggested donation of $10, and $5 for students, military personnel, and seniors. Tickets are currently available by emailing Christina Garcia at [email protected].

Lindhurst High School is located at 4446 Olive Ave in Olivehurst. For more information about the production or to learn more about Lindhurst High’s Performing Arts Program, visit the school’s website or contact Christina Garcia at (530) 741-6150 x2826.