'Little Mermaid' performs in parks

UNDER THE SEA—Gypsies in a Trunk will present "The Little Mermaid" outdoors on Sept. 6 and 13 in Ventura County. From left: Pat Newbert as Ursula, John Logue as King Triton, Olivia Heulitt as Ariel, Patrick Beckstead as Prince Eric and Chris Carnicelli as Sebastian. The all-volunteer troupe of Gypsies in a Trunk will conclude its 14th season of free Fairy Tales in the Park with family-friendly performances of "The Little Mermaid" at the following sites in Ventura County:

•11:30 a.m. Sat., Sept. 6, Foxfield Park, 31965 Foxfield Drive, Westlake Village.

•4 p.m. Sat., Sept. 6, and Simi Valley at 4:00 pm at Rancho Simi Community Park, 1765 Royal Ave., Simi Valley.

•11:30 a.m. Sat., Sept. 13, Community Recreation Center, 1605 E Burnley St., Camarillo.

Ariel's met the man of her dreams but there's just one little problem: he's human and she's a mermaid. Hijinks ensue with Ursula the sea witch and her spells. Flounder and Crabby go crazy and King Triton tries to figure this out.

The play was written and directed by Chris Carnicelli. The cast includes Patrick Beckstead, Carnicelli, Olivia Heuilitt, John Logue, Pat Newbert, and Chase Snyder.

All performances are held in outdoor settings. Show are free but donations will be accepted.

Families may bring lawn seating, food and snacks but leave pets at home. For more information, call (661) 718-3968 or visit www.fairytalesinthepark.com.