“A cleverly conceived villain played by the right actor can walk away with many a musical (or in this case, swim away with it), and Chisolm (who uses the pronouns they/them) does exactly that with Ursula.  Sporting a shock of white hair and a gorgeous purple gown, Chisolm demonstrates that they’ll take no prisoners (Ariel excepted) as they belt “I Want the Good Times Back” with their chortling henchmen Flotsam  and Jetsam.  Chisolm is sensational.”

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“As the Sea Witch, Jonathan Chisolm leans far more into the Pat Carroll interpretation of the role, inspired by drag queens like Divine and in lowering the key of the song is given a more darker, vicious tone to their delivery. Brechtian and brooding, Ursula decries the “Poor Unfortunate Souls” that have come to her in their hour of need, as Ariel joins them by exchanging her voice for a pair of legs and lungs.”

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“Speaking of the villain, Jonathan Chisolm lends the character a devious demeanor. Rather than show off or beg for laughs, Chisolm makes Ursula’s traits seem organic to her. The performer, sporting an oddly-shaped shock of white hair and an appropriately dark outfit, commands the stage while remaining natural in the role and demonstrating deft comic timing. In addition, Chisolm’s evil laugh is an apt choice for the character.”

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“Chisolm, a Trans Femme Nonbinary person playing the female villain, was compelling, sporting a feminine look with a purple dress, white hair and smooth dancing. Their voice was commanding, especially in the production number I Want The Good Times Back.”