Students ages nine to 18 are invited to audition for the cast of Encore Stage and Studio’s musical production of “The Little Mermaid,” to be presented in January, it was announced today.

Students 12 and older can audition for crew. No experience is necessary and there is no fee to audition. The auditions will be held on Monday, Oct. 21 and Tuesday, Oct. 22, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington. Forms, rehearsal calendar and additional information can be found on at encorestage.org. Audiences will be urged to splash into this classic story of Ariel, the mermaid princess, who wishes to live in the world above rather than the ocean floor. To explore life on land, Ariel goes against the rules of her father, King Triton, and makes a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula. Ransoming her voice and risking to lose it forever, she must convince Prince Eric that she is indeed that girl with the enchanting voice. Sing along to your favorite songs and watch as Ariel, with the help of her friends, tries to break Ursula’s curse and win the heart of Prince Eric. Recommended for ages 4 and up.