Inside Zak Jacobs' Vision: How The Little Mermaid Swims to Life

Julia Wagner · 2026-07-20

When you think of The Little Mermaid, you probably picture the Disney movie. But bringing that story to the stage? That's a whole different beast. Choreographer Zak Jacobs recently sat down to talk about his work on the Uptown Music Theater production, and his insights are a goldmine for anyone in the dance world. ### From Screen to Stage: The Choreographic Challenge Jacobs admits that adapting such an iconic film is both thrilling and terrifying. "Everyone knows these characters," he says. "You have to honor that while making it fresh for the stage." The key, he explains, is to focus on storytelling through movement. Each dance number isn't just steps; it's a scene that pushes the plot forward. For dance studio owners and choreographers, that's a crucial reminder: choreography isn't just about pretty patterns. It's about character and narrative. Jacobs spent weeks studying the original animation, then working with his dancers to develop movements that felt true to the characters. ### The Collaborative Process Working with a large cast, Jacobs emphasizes collaboration. "I don't just dictate steps," he says. "I ask dancers what feels natural to them. Sometimes their ideas are better than mine." That open approach builds trust and invests everyone in the production. If you're choreographing a show, try Jacobs' method: hold workshops where dancers can experiment. You might be surprised by what they bring to the table. ### Practical Tips for Dance Educators Jacobs shares some advice that applies to any studio: - **Start with the music.** Let the score guide your movement choices. - **Build in flexibility.** Leave room for improvisation and adjustments. - **Focus on transitions.** The moments between big steps are where the magic happens. - **Tell the story.** Every gesture should have intention. These principles can elevate your classes and performances, whether you're working with beginners or pros. ### The Business Side of Theater Dance Jacobs also touches on the practical aspects: budgeting for costumes, scheduling rehearsals, and marketing the show. He notes that ticket sales for The Little Mermaid have been strong, partly because of the built-in fan base. But he stresses that quality matters more than hype. "If you put on a great show, people will come back," he says. "And they'll tell their friends." For studio owners, that's a reminder that investing in production value pays off. It's not just about selling tickets; it's about building a reputation. ### What's Next for Jacobs? While he's tight-lipped about future projects, Jacobs hints at more theatrical work. "I love the challenge of adapting familiar stories," he says. "There's something magical about seeing them live." His advice to aspiring choreographers? "Keep learning. Take classes, watch everything, and never stop asking questions." ### Bringing It Back to Your Studio So what can you take away from Jacobs' experience? Whether you're choreographing a full-scale musical or teaching a weekly class, the principles are the same: tell a story, collaborate, and stay true to the material. And don't be afraid to take risks. As Jacobs puts it, "The best choreography comes from the heart. If you feel it, the audience will too." That's a lesson worth passing on to your students.