Per Westfield Wheaton: Westfield Wheaton Mall is excited to announce “Make a Splash with Real Mermaids” on Saturday, May 27, from 12-4pm. This free event is open to the public and will celebrate the highly anticipated return of Disney’s The Little Mermaid to the big screen. To honor the film’s groundbreaking move towards increased diversity and representation in media, Wheaton’s premier indoor shopping destination will welcome three real live mermaids, whose beauty and grace will captivate visitors at Macy’s Lower Court. The court will transform into an immersive, thalassic underwater cove like that of Ariel’s Secret Grotto, with a gigantic clam shell throne, floating light-up jellyfish and dangling seaweed. But the celebration is not just for movie fans. Mall patrons will also enjoy:
● Live music
● Little mer-makeovers with face painters
● Photo prints from a professional photographer
● Exclusive promotions from retailers all throughout the mall
Westfield Wheaton Mall offers a wide variety of retail and dining options and play areas for children. In conjunction with the event, AMC Wheaton Mall 9 will showcase the latest, live-action rendition of Disney’s classic tale, which is set to be released in theaters on May 26. Movie goers are encouraged to purchase their tickets here.
This version of The Little Mermaid features a Black actress, singer Halle Bailey, in the iconic role of Ariel. The official trailer for the movie went viral last fall and now surpasses 15 million views. The decision to cast Bailey and release of the trailer sparked a worldwide response, with parents of young Black girls sharing their children’s enthusiastic reactions across social media. “We can’t wait to see the smiles on everyone’s faces as they meet real mermaids and lay their eyes on the elaborate decorations and experiences we’ve been planning for months. It feels great to welcome back The Little Mermaid to the big screen,” says Michael Lado, Director of Marketing at Westfield Wheaton Mall. “I know our mall patrons will be thrilled with everything Westfield Wheaton has done to bring this film to life, and make it part of their world.”
Bailey’s starring role in the Disney film is particularly meaningful for the community of Montgomery County, home to Westfield Wheaton Mall. Recognized as one of the most diverse counties in the United States, the local community is invited to rejoice in this positive move towards cultural representation.
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