A Monroe theatre company, Spotlight Studios, recently held a production of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” March 9-12 to six sold-out audiences.

In January, 75 people made their way to downtown to Spotlight Studios, a theatre based on performing arts education owned by Daveaux Riggs.

People of almost all ages, from 7+ were welcome to audition, and a large variety of ages did, making casting much more realistic based off the movie.

Roughly 65 out of the 75 who tried out made it into the show and Spotlight Studios began production.

Monroe High School student junior Joee Nicols was especially excited after landing the lead role as Ariel.

“I was very honored to play the role of Ariel. I didn’t think I had the ability to do that,” Nicols said. “It was honestly one of the best experiences of my life.”

Monroe County Community College student Joshua Bender, who played a pilot/sea creature/chef, enjoyed rehearsals and thought they were very fun.

“I loved rehearsals and I always had more energy after them except for tech week, then I was very drained,” Bender said.

Male lead junior Tristan Daniels played the part of Prince Eric. Although he was in many shows in the past, he had a different experience at Spotlight Studios than other theatre experiences in the past.

“It was a very close knit group, and it really felt like a family. I felt really accepted in the whole production,” Daniels said. “Everyone was very welcoming and with such a small unique space, it gave everyone a chance to become close.”