AndrewsGrotto is a fabulous Instagram account, founded by Andrew Barry, an Ariel enthusiast from the United Kingdom.
Andrew’s love for The Little Mermaid started at a very young age, as he’s stated in his Instagram Live. His enthusiasm is contagious and sparks conversations amongst die-hard Ariel fans all across the globe.
Andrew holding the limited edition Ariel doll for the 30th anniversary of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”
He joyfully shares his Disney Park adventures at the parks on his Instagram stories.
His latest adventure was at Disneyland Paris, where he explored the park and of course, met Ariel. He shared his numerous character interactions, exploring the fine and unique Disney dining, and discovering the new Disney Parks merchandise.
Andrew at the Disney Store UK, excited to be holding new Ariel merchandise
AndrewsGrotto is very proud of his collection of all things Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Much like Ariel and her grotto, Andrew’s collection is huge. His collection includes Limited Edition dolls, open-edition dolls, pins, movie collectables, park merchandise, and so much more.
Andrew’s favorite moments with Ariel at Disney Parks
AndrewsGrotto is a wonderful fan account on Instagram that deserves so much recognition for uniting The Little Mermaid fanbase. Be a part of Andrew’s journey, by following AndrewsGrotto on Instagram. You won’t shell-regret it.
Disney Legend Jodi Benson at Walt Disney Studio’s in Burbank, California
This particular article is dedicated to Disney Legend: Jodi Benson, whose changed and inspired the lives of many.
Jodi is best-known for providing the talking and singing voice of Ariel in Disney’s 1989 film, The Little Mermaid.
For many of us, growing up in the 90’s, Ariel was a part of our childhood’s and memories. We danced to the unforgettable soundtrack on a cassette tape, pretended to be mermaid’s in the pool, and begged our parent’s to take us to Disney Parks, just to catch a glimpse of Ariel or if we were lucky enough, to meet her.
Ariel was one of our earliest role models, before many of us knew, what a role model was. We desired Ariel’s life, the same way, Ariel desired to explore the human world and to be on land. Jodi’s influence has transcended for a lot of fans, beyond childhood. We see Jodi Benson as an icon, inspiration, friend, and mentor. She’s helped shape the lives of many, by being as vocal, strong, and determined as Ariel. We are forever blessed to have Jodi be a part of our world. There are many of us, who are eternally grateful to Jodi, in ways, that mere words cannot describe.
If it wasn’t for Jodi Benson voicing Ariel, this blog, wouldn’t exist. It’s because of Ariel, that I became interested in mermaid’s. Ariel was and forever will be, my favorite Disney Princess and will continue to inspire me in all aspects of my life. For me, no trip to any Disney Park is complete without visiting Ariel. And there are many other fans, who would say the exact same thing.
So, how did Jodi land the iconic role of Ariel?
Howard Ashman and Jodi Benson
Short answer. Howard Ashman.
Back in 1986, Jodi Benson starred in the ill-fated musical Smile at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, that only ran for 48 performances and closed January 1987. The lyrics and book for Smile were written by Howard Ashman.
After the show closed, Howard offered an audition to Jodi and the other girl’s in Smile for another project he was working on with Alan Menken. That film was Disney’s The Little Mermaid. He gave Jodi a snippet of the script and a cassette recording of him singing Part of Your World.
A year later, Jodi would get a phone call that would change her life forever. She got the part of Ariel.
The Little Mermaid would be Disney’s first fairy tale film in 30 years. The film is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s, The Little Mermaid that was published in 1837. Many fans, would consider Disney’s version of The Little Mermaid as their introduction to the classic fairy tale and to mermaids.
As we grew up, so did Disney’s The Little Mermaid franchise. Jodi voiced Ariel in video games, TV Shows, sequels and prequels, and so much more. The franchise itself, would be nothing without her.
Thanks Jodi for being Part of Our World! We love you!
