Villains & heroes rise at The Cat in Carmel

By AIDA KARIM
news@readthereporter.com

Maleficent, Jafar, Cruella de Vil, Grimhilde – the stories of these infamous Disney villains are resurrected in the electrifying production of Disney’s Descendants. Carmel Community Players (CCP) brings the story to life at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, through June 21.

The Reporter spoke with CCP Director Tanya Haas about the magical experience audiences should look forward to at the upcoming production.

Haas told The Reporter the Disney’s Descendants musical was based on the 2015 Disney film, capturing the dynamic progression between heroes and villains. The story focuses on kids at a school for heroes, four of whom are the children of classic Disney villains: Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty, Jafar from Aladdin, Cruella de Vil from 101 Dalmatians, and Grimhilde from Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.

Photo provided

The children of heroes and villains meet as they explore complex relationship dynamics and rising tension between good and evil.

Haas said she makes it a priority to cast everyone who auditions when she directs youth productions with the ages ranging from 10 to 21. The show has many main characters and opportunities for young ensemble members.

“Between thinking the story was a lot of fun, the music being really catchy and memorable, and the opportunity for a lot of kids to be involved, I thought it would be a great one to bring to CCP,” Haas said.

The Evil Parents: (from left) Zilas Marshall as Jafar, Katie Schaffer as Evil Queen Grimhilde, Molly Parker as Maleficent, and Joey Brandenburg as Cruella de Vil. (Photo provided)

Haas told The Reporter that within her cast of 32 actors, experience levels vary quite a bit. Haas said she enjoyed navigating the blend between experienced actors and those who are getting to be on stage for the first time.

In terms of particular cast members who really shine, Haas said Lyric Kemp, Sydney Weitz, and Molly Parker are three young women who have really strong singing voices. Nixon Gough also has a really big part in the show and has really stepped up.

Hass told The Reporter this is a show everyone will enjoy.

“This is a show that would be enjoyable for all ages,” Haas said. “A lot of times, even with youth productions, they’re not appropriate for younger kids, but anybody who’s watched classic Disney movies is going to recognize these characters.”

Haas said older audiences may mistake this show as not being “age-appropriate” but there are some absolutely outstanding young actors in the production. The young actors in shows today are the ones who may be on professional stages on and off Broadway someday, so coming to see youth theater helps encourage future stars.

“Without the support of audiences, friends, and family, we wouldn’t have these kinds of opportunities,” Haas said. “I appreciate anybody who is willing to come out, support young theater, and see that it really is worthwhile to spend their time here.”

You can see Disney’s Descendants on stage at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel, through June 21. Call (317) 815-9387 or go to CarmelPlayers.org to get your tickets.