Meet the Singing Mermaid Cast

Louise Mellor

I trained at the Curious School of Puppetry and I studied Physical Theatre in Italy and Performing Arts at the University of Salford. I have performed in theatres, schools, libraries and forests all around the UK as well as abroad, including Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan and Robin Hood in Italy and The Jungle Book in China.

What was your favourite story when you were young?
The BFG by Roald Dahl. I once dressed up as Sophie for World Book Day!

Can you do any circus tricks?
I spent some time at a circus school in Turin where I learnt to walk the tight-wire and a couple of moves on the aerial silks. I’m not sure if I’d still be able to do them though, as I haven’t practised since. I can still do a head-stand though - does that count?

Tell us a joke!
What did the sea say to the mermaid? Nothing, it just waved.

Heidi Goldsmith

I trained at East 15 Acting School and have been puppeteering for the last 6 years. I have been involved in numerous shows including ‘Wow! It’s Night-time’ (Little Angel Theatre), ‘Arbor’ (Smoking Apples Theatre) and ‘The Adventures of Bo Peep’ (Knuckle and Joint). I have just finished a 5 month tour of ‘The Smartest Giant in Town’ (Little Angel Theatre), where we have been lucky enough to receive an Olivier Award nomination for Best Family Show! This is my second time performing in ‘The Singing Mermaid’ and I am full of joy to be returning to Silversands.

What was your favourite story when you were young?
Burglar Bill! By Janet and Allan Ahlberg. I loved all their books when I was little.

Can you do any circus tricks?
I can juggle!

Tell us a joke!
I was told to stop pretending to be a flamingo. I had to put my foot down.

Adam Ryan

I trained at The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA). I have had the pleasure of playing Tom the Crocodile from Spot the Dog, Azrael in The Smurfs: Live on Stage and even hung out with The Very Hungry Caterpillar. The Singing Mermaid marked my third Christmas Season at Lakeside Arts, having previously been there with Flat Stanley and Red Riding Hood. It’s great to be back on tour with this lovely show.

What was your favourite story when you were young?
I love reading books even to this day. I enjoyed the Funnybones stories and Richard Scarry’s picture books which I read with my Gran.

Can you do any circus tricks?
I can spin plates! (plastic ones, mind).

Tell us a joke!
How many tickles does it take to make an Octopus laugh? Ten-tickles!

Puppeteer Louise Mellor
Puppeteer Adam Ryan
Puppeteer Heidi Goldsmith
Associate Director Oliver Hymans
Stage Manager Lucy Barter
Adapted by Samantha Lane & Barb Jungr
Music and Lyrics by Barb Jungr
Original production directed by Samantha Lane
Design by Laura McEwen
Lighting Design by Sherry Coenen
Puppets by Lyndie Wright
Additional Puppets by Jan Zalud