BroadwayRadio Special Episode: Haven Burton on the Joys of Being the Villain in ‘The Little Mermaid’

Release Date: June 10, 2025

Introduction

In this special episode of BroadwayRadio, host Matt Tamminini sits down with Haven Burton, a seasoned Broadway actress renowned for her diverse roles in productions like Rent, Legally Blonde, Shrek the Musical, Kiki Boots, and How to Dance in Ohio. This conversation delves into Haven's latest venture into villainy as she portrays Ursula, Ariel’s aunt, in the current Paper Mill Playhouse production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. This marks Haven's first foray into playing a villain, adding a new dimension to her illustrious career.

First Week at Paper Mill Playhouse

Matt Tamminini [01:08]: "Haven, you get to finish your first week of Little Mermaid at Paper Mill Playhouse. You had opening night on Sunday. How’d everything go? Are you settling into it? How’s the first week of shows been?"

Haven Burton [03:17]: "Yeah, the first week of shows were great. You know, it’s a very different process. Regional theater, you do previews, and we had a matinee before our opening night performance, so it felt like a really big push to get this on its feet. And it was so much fun. And the company is just incredible. Everyone is so talented and so kind and just really willing to go the extra mile to make this the best possible version that we can. We have an extraordinary creative team, and it’s just been wonderful."

Haven reflects on the invigorating experience of launching the production, highlighting the collaborative spirit and dedication of the entire cast and crew.

Why Paper Mill Playhouse?

Matt Tamminini [03:53]: "You’ve worked at Paper Mill before. Besides the fact that it is so close to New York City, what is it about the staff there, the audiences there, the facilities that make Paper Mill a special experience?"

Haven Burton [04:19]: "I love everything about it. The staff is wonderful—they’re so hospitable and excellent hosts. It’s their home, and they treat each company as new guests, including the dressing rooms. They’re generous and considerate, from the top creative directors to the crew and dressers. Milburn is beautiful, with a great downtown area and nestled in the South Mountain Reservation, offering a magical escape from the concrete jungle of New York City. The production quality is unlike anything I’ve seen regionally, pulling together Broadway veterans and new talent uniquely due to its proximity to the city. It’s a beautiful space to be in."

Haven elaborates on her deep affection for the Paper Mill Playhouse, emphasizing its hospitality, superb facilities, and the enchanting location that fosters both creativity and community.

Distinguishing This Production

Matt Tamminini [06:35]: "You talked about wanting to do the best version of Little Mermaid possible in a short amount of time. How is this version different from any other versions on stage or screen?"

Haven Burton [06:58]: "Joanne Hunter, our director, is wonderful—generous and collaborative from day one. She fostered an environment full of fun, love, and kindness, which is the first step to doing something differently. The casting is very diverse, elevating our version. Additionally, our mermaids fly instead of staying on the ground, with extraordinary special effects. We were encouraged to dig deep into our characters, finding truths and making them three-dimensional, which is unique for our interpretation at the Paper Mill."

Haven highlights the innovative directorial approach, diverse casting, and unique staging elements, such as flying mermaids, that set this production apart from previous iterations.

Exploring Ursula’s Character

Matt Tamminini [10:01]: "With Ursula in particular, you get a whole lot more backstory than in the movie, creating sympathy for the character. How does this different take enhance the portrayal?"

Haven Burton [10:29]: "I love Ursula because her character is so layered. In the stage production, her backstory is expanded, showing she and Ariel are the youngest of seven daughters with similar loves but different environments. Ursula’s father was emotionally withdrawn and abusive, which contrasts Ariel’s loving father. This divergence creates a complex relationship where Ursula can see herself in Ariel but also resents her for the love and privilege Ariel receives. It's a fun and intricate relationship to explore."
"My favorite line is when I say to Ariel, 'We’re so alike, you and I,' which highlights their similarities and differences, adding depth to Ursula's character." [14:07]

Haven delves into the nuanced portrayal of Ursula, examining her motivations and the intricate relationship with Ariel, thus offering a more sympathetic and multi-dimensional villain.

Collaborating with the Cast

Matt Tamminini [20:02]: "What has it been like working with Hilary Fisher as your niece and the rest of the cast?"

Haven Burton [20:02]: "I'm still getting to know everyone better since I’m fairly isolated from the rest of the cast, interacting mainly with Flotsam, Jetsam, and Hilary from time to time. Hilary Fisher, who plays Ariel, is fantastic—her voice is exquisite, and she embodies Ariel’s character beautifully both on and offstage. We share car rides and enjoy lighthearted conversations, making the working relationship enjoyable and supportive."
"With Nick and Sean Patrick, whom I’ve worked with before in Kinky Boots, it’s been a lot of fun. We laugh and joke a lot, making the environment lively and enjoyable." [20:31]

Haven praises her co-stars, particularly Hilary Fisher, and describes the camaraderie and positive working relationships that enhance the production's atmosphere.

Diving into Pokémon Voice Acting

Matt Tamminini [22:24]: "What is happening with Pokémon? You do a lot of Pokémon voice acting. Can you explain how big the fandom is and your experience within it?"

Haven Burton [22:51]: "I started with Pokémon about 11 years ago, introduced by a Broadway friend. I voiced one of Ash Ketchum’s companions in XY and XYZ for three years, playing characters like Bonnie and Clement. My character had a unique arc, including a kiss with Ash on the final episode, which broke the Pokémon Internet. The fandom is incredible—diverse and expansive across games, movies, cards, and more. Engaging with fans at Comic Cons and signings is wonderful, and being part of their upbringing is truly special."
"It’s also fun to have street cred with my kids. At my son's first-grade career day, I shared my trainer card, and the kids were inspired to become voice actors." [26:28]

Haven shares her enthusiasm for her role in Pokémon, highlighting the deep connection with the fandom and how it enriches her personal and professional life.

Makeup and Costume Insights

Matt Tamminini [26:30]: "You posted a 'Get Ready with Me' video featuring your full Ursula makeup. How does this compare to your Fiona look?"

Haven Burton [27:04]: "Fiona’s makeup was simpler—green eyeshadow, gold accents, red lips, and cheeks, designed specifically for the character. Ursula’s makeup is more elaborate, using glow-in-the-dark tentacle stamps that shine under blacklight, inspired by bioluminescent sea creatures. The costume incorporates a ship motif in the wig and a glamorous, Marie Antoinette-inspired ball gown aesthetic, reflecting Ursula’s status as a fallen aristocrat. This detailed approach allows for a visually stunning and character-driven portrayal."
"For Ursula, the cowl and gloves are green, but I’m never painted green. Instead, lighting creates the illusion, reserving the transformation for the final scenes." [27:48]

Haven provides an in-depth look at the transformative makeup and costume design that bring Ursula to life, emphasizing the creativity and technical skill involved in crafting her villainous persona.

Personal Anecdotes and Family Involvement

Matt Tamminini [29:33]: "Did your kids see the production?"

Haven Burton [29:33]: "Not yet, but they’re coming on Wednesday. My husband, also a performer in Chicago the Musical, is bringing our three kids to see the show. My five-year-old daughter is excited about the octopus elements, inspired by Descendants, where Uma, a descendant of Ursula, is a cool pirate who transforms into an octopus. She’s already a fan." [29:56]

Haven shares the joy of involving her family in her professional life, highlighting how her children connect with her role and the broader Disney universe.

Closing Remarks

Matt Tamminini [30:26]: "Thank you so much for talking about this. I hope you get the most character deep dives before closing on June 29th. Hopefully, there are more Ursulas in your future as well."

Haven Burton [30:46]: "I would love any villain roles. Maybe Jafar next!" [30:46]

Matt wraps up the conversation, expressing hopes for Haven’s continued success and exploration of diverse roles, while Haven humorously aspires to embrace more villainous characters in her career.

Conclusion

This episode of BroadwayRadio offers a captivating glimpse into Haven Burton's latest theatrical endeavor, her portrayal of Ursula in The Little Mermaid, and her multifaceted career in Broadway and voice acting. Through her insightful discussion, listeners gain an appreciation for the depth and dedication she brings to her roles, both beloved and villainous. Haven's passion for her craft and her ability to connect with audiences, whether on stage or through iconic franchises like Pokémon, underscores her versatility and enduring appeal in the world of performing arts.

For more information and to purchase tickets to The Little Mermaid at the Paper Mill Playhouse running through June 29th, visit Paper Mill Playhouse Tickets.