Director Logan Foster and the talented cast of Waymaker Arts’ production of "The Little Mermaid" are rehearsing rigorously to bring the story of Ariel, Prince Eric, Sebastian and all the lively characters of the seven seas to life on the Kroc Stage in Coeur d’Alene later this month.

“It is a beautiful classic story,” Foster said. “My goal with this production was to recapture that magic as honestly as we could.”

Leading up to opening night Aug. 20, the cast is rehearsing three times a week for three to four hours. The costume and set committees are working around the clock to create elaborate pieces such as Ariel’s pink gown.

“We’re trying to make it as close to the original as we can,” said Assistant Director and cast member Kaitlyn Foster. “It's a Disney production, so they're very detail-oriented and we’re seeing that with our sets and costumes.”

The cast is an enthusiastic group with a diverse age range, eager to collaborate and bring their vocal, dance and acting talents to the classic story and iconic characters. They are aware that most audience members are familiar with the story of "The Little Mermaid" and know to expect an uplifting, heartfelt show.

“Hearing the audience sing along and know the songs is always a fun time,” said cast member Nic Brownlee, who plays Sebastian.

While Waymaker Arts initially planned to produce "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" this year, they decided the show’s content was inappropriate and canceled the play early in the production process. They switched to "The Little Mermaid" because of its fun, family-friendly content and beloved musical numbers.

When Logan Foster founded the nonprofit theater ministry Waymaker Arts in 2025, his vision was to bring his Christian values and people-first approach to theater. As a director, Foster focuses on empathy and character development. He fell in love with theater 11 years ago and finds that acting helps him overcome his own shyness and feel like part of a community. He hopes to share the benefits of theater with others through Waymaker.

“We try to really value people over performance,” Foster said. “Performing does give you the confidence and the ability to be able to interact with people.”

For Peytra Parris, who plays Ariel, this production has allowed her to tackle her first lead role. This is her first production with Waymaker, and she is impressed by the level of talent around her.

“I just love performing, and it's just so fun to see this whole thing come together,” Parris said.

Waymaker Arts’ production of "The Little Mermaid" opens Aug. 20 at The Midge & Pepper Smock Family Theater at the Salvation Army Kroc Center in Coeur d’Alene. Showtimes are Aug. 20 and 21 at 7 p.m.; Aug. 22 at 4:30 and 9:30 p.m.; Aug. 26-28 at 7 p.m.; and Aug. 29 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 per adult and $5 per child (ages 3-12) before fees and taxes and are on sale now at waymakerarts.com.