The Hidden Cast of Disney’s The Little Mermaid: ISM’s Robotics Team

At most schools, a musical is powered by performers, costumes, and a stage crew. At The International School of Minnesota (ISM), it’s also powered by engineers.

This spring, ISM’s production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid is doing more than bringing a beloved story to the stage; it’s redefining what school theater can look like. Behind the scenes, the school’s Robotics team has taken on an unexpected role, working alongside student performers and the technical crew to design and build key elements of the show. The result is a production where storytelling and technology intersect in ways audiences may not expect.

While the audience will see colorful costumes, dynamic choreography, and familiar songs, much of the magic begins long before the curtain rises. Robotics students collaborated closely with the production team to conceptualize, prototype, and fabricate detailed props that enhance the visual experience. To achieve the right level of detail and durability, the team produced 10 custom-designed gills, four necklaces, two crowns, and three statues—each refined through multiple iterations.

One of the most ambitious pieces is a statue of Prince Eric, modeled from a 3D scan of the student actor’s face. The final version requires 42 hours to print and uses 1.5 kilograms of filament, along with 18 embedded magnets to achieve its structure. The team also engineered Ursula’s necklace, integrating circuitry into the design to create a prop that blends theatrical storytelling with technical precision. Even one of the production’s most dramatic on-stage moments relies on engineering, offering a glimpse into how technology can enhance live performance in subtle but powerful ways.

For ISM Drama Director Charlie Diefenbach-Healy, the goal was to create a production that would allow as many students as possible to contribute—not just on stage, but across disciplines. “We’re creating an experience where engineering and performance come together, allowing students who may not have considered being part of a musical to play a meaningful role.”

That vision has shaped a truly collaborative production. This year’s cast includes 31 student performers, supported by a crew of 9 and members of the Robotics team, with participants ranging from grades 1 through 12. The all-school approach creates a rare opportunity for students of different ages and interests to work together, building connections that extend beyond the stage.

“I’ve seen so many friendships develop between cast members and crew,” Diefenbach-Healy said. “It’s been special to see younger students look up to older students as role models, and to see students with completely different strengths come together to create something meaningful.”

The production process reflects the kind of learning that extends beyond the classroom. Performers have spent weeks refining vocals, learning choreography, and developing their characters, while robotics and technical crew members have worked behind the scenes engineering solutions, managing sets, and coordinating lighting and sound. Together, they’ve created more than a performance—they’ve built an experience that blends creativity, innovation, and teamwork.

Audiences can expect a vibrant, engaging show filled with imaginative visuals, energetic ensemble numbers, and heartfelt moments. Beneath the surface, however, is a deeper story about how students are exploring new ways to collaborate, innovate, and bring ideas to life.

Performances of Disney’s The Little Mermaid will take place at the Leila C. Saad Performing Arts Center on Thursday, April 9 at 6:00 p.m., Friday, April 10 at 6:00 p.m., Saturday, April 11 at 2:00 p.m., and Sunday, April 12 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are required for all performances.

Following the Saturday performance, audiences are invited to attend “Ariel’s After-Splash Bash,” a special post-show event featuring treats, small giveaways, and an opportunity for children to meet a princess. Separate tickets are required.

Tickets are available at: https://crm-ism.sabis.net/r/ghR