An under the sea theme looks effortless when it works: shimmering costumes, aerialists drifting like jellyfish, pirates on the rigging. Behind that is a surprising amount of planning. This story follows a run of themed shows created for a venue's ocean-themed events, a client who had already staged several productions and wanted this one to go further. It is a useful look at what goes into a bespoke show, and what to think about if you are planning something similar.
Key takeaways
- Agree the storyline and scenes first, then cast performers whose skills fit them.
- Concept art, including AI-generated images, needs translating into costumes that are safe to perform in.
- Short lead times make scheduling the hardest part, so build in backup performers.
- For outdoor shows in the UK, prepare a wet weather version with acts that can swap in.
Starting with the story
The process began with conversations about the storyline and the scenes the client wanted. From there, the team worked out which performance skills would fit each moment, whether that was aerial work, dance, fire or character roles.
Inspiration boards came next. The challenge was how to suggest underwater textures on stage: floating kelp, shimmering scales and drops of sea water. Those ideas were worked through with a costume maker to see what could actually be built.
From concept art to real costumes
Some of the client's reference images had been generated by AI. They looked wonderful, but they were not always possible to make, and certainly not safe to wear while hanging from an aerial rig. Part of the job was managing expectations and finding real-world versions of those ideas.
The solution combined existing garments sourced from suppliers with bespoke pieces made to order, all within a tight timeframe.
Tip from our team: If you share AI concept images with a supplier, treat them as mood boards, not designs, and ask what is realistic.
Casting and scheduling
Casting meant checking skills, sizes, locations, availability and travel for a wide pool of performers. The client then received proposals with biographies, video clips and photos so they could compare options and decide how performers would pair together.
Scheduling was the toughest part. Seven performers had to be booked for one rehearsal and ten show dates, with only about a month's notice. Some became unavailable along the way, so replacements had to be found quickly.
Building the show
Once the cast was confirmed, costumes were finished, choreography created and rehearsals booked. The client produced the scenery, backdrops and decor, along with a full soundtrack.
That soundtrack brought its own problem. The whole show ran on one continuous playlist that could not be paused, so every costume change had to be timed precisely to avoid missing a cue.
The client also planned teaser videos. One needed a model posing with octopus tentacles and was cast with just twelve hours' notice. Another featured performers on a pirate ship built from reclaimed pallets, garden centre plants and plumbing parts.
Planning for British weather
Because some shows were outdoors, several versions were prepared. If wind or rain made aerial work unsafe, fire performance could take its place. Having this plan agreed in advance meant the show could go on whatever the forecast.
One rehearsal to get it right
There was a single rehearsal to test every prop, including a giant clam shell, a treasure chest, a submarine and an aerial jellyfish rig with moving parts. Choreography was adjusted to fit the pre-programmed lighting, the singer was sound-checked and final costume alterations were made, followed by many hours of hand-applied rhinestones.
If your own production only allows one rehearsal, make the most of it. Run the show in full, in costume, with the real soundtrack and lighting. Note every quick change and prop handover, and walk the performers through the route from dressing room to stage so nothing is left to chance on show night.
What the finished show included
The reaction from guests was overwhelmingly positive, which is a good reminder that careful preparation is what makes an ambitious theme feel effortless on the night.
- Pirates climbing a ship's mast and a staged sword fight
- A pearl-covered aerial hoop act
- A burlesque routine in a gold treasure chest with a glitter pour
- Ultraviolet jellyfish and deep sea laser creatures
- Dancers in fishing net costumes and swimmers styled on the 1950s
- Aerial chains over splashing water
- Fire performance and roaming coral and kelp characters
Acts and themes in this article
Mermaids
Mermaid performers for a showpiece welcome
Aerial Performers
Hoop, silks and freestanding aerial rigs
Fire Performers
Fire shows for terraces, gardens and grand finales
Themed Dancers
Charleston, showgirls and choreographed sets
Under the Sea
Mermaids, sea creatures, aerial and burlesque for an underwater world your guests walk into.
Frequently asked questions
What acts suit an under the sea theme?
Mermaids, aerialists styled as jellyfish or sea creatures, UV and LED dancers, pirate characters, fire performers and roaming coral or kelp walkabouts all work well. A singer can help carry a storyline.
How much notice do you need for a bespoke themed show?
As much as possible. A custom show with new costumes and choreography is best planned two to three months ahead. It can be done faster, but options narrow and backup performers become essential.
Can aerial acts perform outdoors?
Yes, on a suitable freestanding rig, but wind and rain can make it unsafe. Always have an alternative act, such as fire or dance, agreed in case conditions change.
Dreaming of an ocean themed event?
Tell us about your venue and the story you want to tell, and we will suggest mermaids, aerialists and themed performers to bring it to life.
Written by Hannah Whitfield, Events writer.
