By Emma Bynes
@emma_bynes4
The magic of the ocean came to life inside of the Fuller Arts Center as the Springfield College Best of Broadway club presented their annual Spring production. This edition featured the musical The Little Mermaid, in a vibrant performance that drew enthusiastic audiences from across the campus and the greater Springfield community.
The student-led production, performed over multiple nights last week, showcased the organization’s commitment to high-quality musical theater while providing students with opportunities to perform, direct, choreograph and produce a full-scale show. With colorful costumes, lively choreography and powerful vocal performances, this performance showcased the powerful and diverse community at Springfield College.
Based on the classic story of Ariel, a curious young mermaid who dreams of exploring life on land, The Little Mermaid blends humor, adventure and heartfelt ballads. The musical follows Ariel’s journey as she strikes a dangerous bargain with the sea witch Ursula in pursuit of her dream to become human and win the heart of Prince Eric.
For Best of Broadway members, the production represented months of preparation and collaboration. Students began rehearsals early on in the semester, dedicating long evenings
The musical numbers proved to be highlights of the performance, with the cast delivering energetic renditions of fan-favorite songs that had audience members tapping their feet and singing along. The ensemble brought particular energy to large group numbers that filled the stage with movement and color, emphasizing the lively underwater setting and captivating the audience inside Fuller.
Behind the scenes, students worked just as hard to bring the production together. The technical crew designed lighting cues that simulated the shifting tones of the ocean, while stagehands coordinated quick scene changes that helped maintain the show’s momentum. Costume designers crafted outfits that captured the whimsical feel of the underwater world, from flowing fabrics representing ocean waves to imaginative interpretations of sea creatures.
The production also featured carefully planned student choreography that blended theatrical storytelling with dance. Underwater-themed movements and synchronized ensemble routines helped create the illusion of life beneath the sea while giving the performers opportunities to showcase their skills.
For many students involved, Best of Broadway provides a creative outlet that extends beyond their academic studies. Members of the group come from a wide range of majors, and the organization prides itself on welcoming anyone interested in theater, regardless of previous experience.
“This was my first time being involved with Best of Broadway,” said first year Amanda Fagnani. “It’s been a lot of work but it was rewarding to see it all pay off last week.”
Audience members responded enthusiastically throughout the performances, often applauding after major musical numbers and comedic moments. The show’s blend of humor, romance and fantasy made it accessible to a wide audience, including students, faculty and community members who attended the performances.
Productions like this one also provide valuable experience for students interested in careers in performing arts, communications and event production. From stage management to marketing the show on campus, students were responsible for nearly every aspect of the production process.
The collaborative environment required strong teamwork and coordination. Directors worked closely with choreographers and music leaders to ensure that scenes flowed smoothly, while performers balanced rehearsals with academic responsibilities.
Despite the demanding schedule, participants said the process was rewarding. The hard work paid off — as The Little Mermaid was the club’s highest grossing performance of all time.
“We made 3,420 dollars, which is about 450 more than we’ve ever made,” said treasurer of the club, Ana Hutchinson. “I’m very proud of this cast.”
Best of Broadway has become a staple of campus arts programming at Springfield College, staging a major musical production each year. The organization’s performances not only highlight student talent but also help strengthen the college’s arts community.
By selecting a well-known musical like The Little Mermaid, the group hoped to attract both longtime theater fans and those experiencing a student production for the first time. The familiarity of the story, combined with the enthusiasm of the student cast, helped create a welcoming atmosphere for audiences.
As the final curtain fell on the production’s closing night, cast and crew members gathered on stage for a final bow, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd. For many participants, the moment marked the culmination of weeks of dedication and teamwork. The club celebrated their success with a pizza party after Saturday’s final performance.
With another successful show completed, members of Best of Broadway say they are already looking forward to future productions and continuing the tradition of student theater at Springfield College, including their annual fall revue next year.
Photo by Emma Bynes/The Student