Jodi Benson brings tears and joy to new Little Mermaid stage show cast.

The Original Ariel Makes Waves at Disney World

Jodi Benson, the iconic voice of Ariel from 1989, surprised the cast of Disney’s new “Little Mermaid” stage show during rehearsals.

The unexpected visit left everyone starstruck as the original mermaid princess walked through the door.

Cast members couldn’t believe their eyes when the legend herself appeared at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, just days before the show’s May 27 premiere.

A Grand Entrance Worthy of a Princess

Nobody makes an entrance quite like the original voice of Ariel.

Benson first wandered backstage incognito, building anticipation among the unsuspecting crew.

Then suddenly, she stepped into the spotlight and belted out those unmistakable vocals that defined a generation.

The room froze in that magical moment when fantasy became reality.

Behind the Scenes Magic

Director James Silson beamed as Benson explored the production’s inner workings.

She marveled at puppet versions of beloved characters like Max, Prince Eric’s shaggy sidekick.

The technical wizardry behind the underwater effects left her genuinely amazed.

Every detail of the elaborate stage design transported her back to her own journey under the sea.

From Animation to Live Adventure

The show transforms the classic tale for a new generation while honoring its roots.

Benson witnessed firsthand how modern technology brings Sebastian and Ursula to life in fresh ways.

The production blends nostalgic elements with contemporary theatrical innovation.

very puppet movement and visual effect carries the spirit of the original while creating something entirely new.

Tears of Joy and Gratitude

Watching the full run-through, Benson couldn’t hold back her emotions.

She leapt to her feet with tears streaming down her face as the final notes played.

Her heartfelt speech honored Howard Ashman and Alan Menken’s timeless music.

The overwhelming moment connected past and present in a celebration of storytelling that spans decades.

A Legacy Across Generations

From the 1989 animated classic to the 2023 live-action remake with Halle Bailey, Ariel’s story continues evolving.

Benson herself appeared in the recent film as a marketplace vendor. Her passion for the character remains undimmed after all these years.

The tale of a young mermaid’s dreams continues finding new audiences while keeping its heart intact.

Full Circle Moments

For Benson, supporting new iterations of Ariel brings pure joy.

She embraces each opportunity to witness the story’s continued legacy.

Her enthusiasm for watching others work is genuinely infectious.

These moments connect the original magic to its modern interpretations in the most meaningful way.

Where Dreams Really Do Come True

Disney’s Hollywood Studios becomes the perfect setting for this undersea adventure.

The Animation Courtyard transforms into Ariel’s magical world starting May 27.

Visitors will soon experience the wonder that moved Benson to tears.

The production promises to capture hearts just as the original did over thirty years ago.