Central Junior High School to perform 'The Little Mermaid'

If you know musical theatre in Cape Girardeau, the name Mike Dumey is not new to you.

The Central Junior High School instructor and musical director will produce his 25th, and final, musical this weekend. It's "The Little Mermaid."

The Broadway production, which is different from the animated version, will feature singing, dancing and the always-fun costume design.

Dumey has directed productions in Cape Girardeau since 1992, starting with his first musical at the former Louis J. Schultz School. That performance, like this weekend's show, was "The Little Mermaid."

This is fitting that Dumey's final production will be the same musical, which was also done one other time in 2004 at the junior high school.

While many will talk about Dumey's career this weekend, he will defer the credit to students. He told this newspaper that there's never been a group that has let him down.

Dumey says he is a "blessed man." He also has been a blessing to many students and musical attendees over the years. The productions are always fantastic, filled with talent and much fun.

This year's show includes a cast of 110 students.

We encourage you to read more about the show in a story at semissourian.com. There is a photo gallery from the dress rehearsal. You will enjoy it.

Performances will be held tonight, Friday and Saturday in the Cape Girardeau Central Junior High auditorium. Ticket prices are $8, $10 and $15 and may be purchased by calling (573) 382-6632.

Thanks for the memories, Mr. Dumey. We wish you and your students the best with this weekend's performance of "The Little Mermaid."