The English-language performance of The Little Mermaid was a great success at the University of Debrecen’s theatre

Twelve countries, one theater company, a fourth premiere – tickets sold out in a single day for the oDEon Theatre’s latest English-language production, brought to the stage with huge success by international students of the University of Debrecen.

From Brazil to Japan, young talents from over a dozen nations were cast in the musical The Little Mermaid, which premiered Saturday in the theater hall on the Böszörményi Street campus.

“This is already our fourth English-language production, and we’re thrilled that once again such a colorful international cast came together for the premiere,” said Veronika Végh, director of the oDEon Theatre. “Some students have performed in every show so far, but there are also many new faces. In fact, Aian, who plays Sebastian, already graduated and returned from Brazil just for this role.”

Andersen’s classic fairy tale was brought to life by the international students of the University of Debrecen with stunning visuals and unforgettable songs. The role of Ariel, the mermaid with the enchanting voice, was played by a Sri Lankan freshman who already seemed right at home on stage.

“I was a bit nervous at the beginning, but then I really enjoyed the performance, and judging by the audience’s reaction, I think the show went very well,” said Shayodya Wathmavi Peiris (Shayo) after the performance. “I’ve never performed in a theater in Hungary before, but I’ve sung on stage back home several times. Music is my passion, my everything – it’s how I express who I truly am. We didn’t have much time to rehearse, and the songs and dialogues are pretty tough, so it was a real challenge, but we received so much support, and I’m very thankful for that. On my first day at the university, I felt very lonely, but thanks to this theatre group, I found friends. I love this theatre and the University of Debrecen.”

The role of King Triton was also played by a newcomer – a fifth-year Nigerian medical student who quickly became an audience favorite.

“It was magical to be part of this play! It was my first time on stage, but I’m so glad I did it. I met an amazing team, and performing in front of such a fantastic audience was an extraordinary experience,” said Ebong Udeme Emmanuel, who even signed autographs after the show.

There were some emotional moments too – one of the cast members broke into tears at the end of the show, despite the joy of the premiere’s success.

“I’ve been performing with this group for four years, and this was my last show, since I’ll be leaving in September. So yes, I got a bit emotional,” said Erfan Amini Masouleh, who played Scuttle the seagull. “The time I spent here was fantastic. I found a new family – I see every member of the cast as a sibling, and Szabolcs Csáki and Veronika Végh are like parents to us. I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of oDEon Theatre.” Erfan, who studies dentistry, plans to continue his journey in London. For the autumn performance of The Little Mermaid, a new young talent from the University’s international theater group will step into the role.