Disney magic is heading to the South Bay this winter as Encore Theatre Group presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center for a limited run January 10–11, 2026. If your family loves the animated classic (or you grew up belting out “Part of Your World” in your bedroom), this is the kind of weekend outing that feels like a can’t-miss event.

The Little Mermaid at Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center

Encore’s new staging invites audiences to slip beneath the surface and rediscover Ariel’s story with fresh theatrical imagination—an undersea world that’s shimmering, mysterious, and just a little more intense in all the best ways. Expect big movement, bold visuals, and stagecraft designed to make you feel like you’ve stepped into an ocean kingdom where every corner holds a bit of wonder. The heart of the tale is still front and center: a brave young mermaid, an irresistible pull toward the world above, and the courage it takes to chase who you’re meant to be.

Of course, the score is a huge part of what makes The Little Mermaid so beloved, and this production celebrates that—featuring music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, and a book by Doug Wright. Fans can look forward to hearing the songs you know and love—“Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl,” and “Part of Your World”—brought to life live on stage with the kind of energy that turns familiar moments into brand-new memories.

It’s also a great pick for families planning ahead. The show runs approximately 2.5 hours including intermission, and the venue will have concessions and merchandise available before the performance and during intermission, making it easy to turn your visit into a full “special occasion” theatre day.

Beyond the production itself, Encore Theatre Group is known for building community through the arts, with a stated commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment for participants and audiences alike. That spirit of welcoming, family-friendly theatre is exactly what makes an event like this feel so special—an opportunity to share a story generations love, together, in the glow of live performance.

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect reason to gather the family and head to the theatre, consider this your sign—because a South Bay weekend with Ariel, Sebastian, and all that undersea adventure is the kind of winter treat you’ll be glad you didn’t let swim by.