Sacred Hearts Academy’s annual fall production is Disney’s “The Little Mermaid Jr.” Based on the children’s story by Hans Christian Andersen and adapted from the 1989 Disney film, “The Little Mermaid Jr.” pays homage to the classic story while introducing new characters who blend well with this revamped musical. Rehearsals are underway with an ensemble cast of students from several schools.

At the helm of the project, veteran director Kyle Kakuno aims to create “a magical production which will touch audiences of all ages.”

The cast features a large ensemble of students who rehearse Monday through Friday each week, dedicating a great deal of time to pre-production.

“I never thought I would get so close to such an amazing group of people. It almost feels like the cast is a family,” said senior Stephanie Yasay.

Senior Kiloni Ramo has the lead, playing the plucky speech-impaired mermaid, Ariel.

“I am unbelievably grateful for this experience. To be a part of such a spectacular cast makes me proud to be a performer,” said Ramo, who played the titular character in Kakuno’s production of “Mulan” last year.

Kaiser High School sophomore Timothy Trimble is cast as Prince Eric.

“I feel very excited about this play and happy that I actually got in. I have always wanted to be in a Disney and when I got accepted, I couldn’t wait. Even though it is a pain to have to get myself there and then back to Hawaii Kai, it is worth it because I really enjoy every minute of it.”

Ashley Layfield, Miss Hawaii 2007, has joined the production team as the head choreographer. Layfield recently flew in from New York where she appeared off-Broadway in the production of “Girls With Dreams.”

Nine performances begin with the special opening night by invitation only for Sacred Hearts Academy donors on Nov. 1. There will also be a morning show for elementary school students on Nov 8. Remaining performances are on Nov. 1, 3, 4, 9, 10, and 11.