Syesha Mercado to Star in Once on This Island at Paper Mill Playhouse

American Idol finalist Syesha Mercado will star as Ti Moune in the Paper Mill Playhouse production of the Stephen Flaherty-Lynn Ahrens musical, Once on This Island, to be presented May 30-June 24, with an opening on June 3. Thomas Kail will direct, with choreography by Bradley Rapier.

This Caribbean adaptation of the popular fairy tale The Little Mermaid tells the story of Ti Moune, a peasant girl who rescues and falls in love with Daniel, a wealthy boy from the other side of her island. When Daniel is returned to his people, the fantastical gods who rule the island guide Ti Moune on a quest to test the strength of her love against the powerful forces of prejudice, hatred and death. According to press notes, this production will feature a re-imagined score from Flaherty and Ahrens.

The creative team will include Lynne Shankel (music director), Donyale Werle (scenic design), Jessica Jahn (costumes), Kenneth Posner (lighting design), and Randy Hansen (sound design).

Complete casting will be announced at a later date.

Click here for more information and Once on This Island tickets.