Eugene’s Ballet Fantastique is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a world premiere of a familiar tale. This rendition of “The Little Mermaid” has a unique twist: It’s an ’80s pop ballet.
Hannah Bontrager is bubbly and diminutive—quite what you’d expect of a ballerina. A guard smiles as she scurries toward the Silva Concert Hall inside the Hult Center in downtown Eugene.
“Does it feel too philosophical to share that the show we’re doing is about having so many different ways to express your voice?” Bontrager asked.
If it’s been a few years since you’re seen or read “The Little Mermaid,” here’s a quick refresher: The title character falls in love with an earthly prince– no spoiler there–and much to the chagrin of her father, King Poseidon, she makes a deal with a sea witch to exchange her beautiful voice for a pair of legs…