Finding Nemo JR

The recent production of Finding Nemo JR by NK Theatre Arts was a wonderfully vibrant celebration of creativity, talent, and storytelling. Set in the magical world beneath the waves, this youth-led performance brought Pixar’s beloved underwater tale to life with a clever mix of innovative staging, imaginative props, and sparkling performances from a cast brimming with enthusiasm.

From the very first moment, the audience was submerged in a sea of colour and ingenuity. The use of inflatable balloons and exciting stage projections instantly transformed the theatre into a dynamic oceanic world. These visual elements worked seamlessly with the multi-level staging, which added depth and dimension to the performance and allowed for fluid scene changes that mimicked the constant motion of the sea.

One of the production’s strongest visual features was its brilliant use of costumes. Each character, whether in the spotlight or part of the ensemble, was instantly recognisable through the clever and colourful designs. The fishy aesthetic was brought to life through eye-catching combinations of textures, accessories, and vibrant palettes. Two standout costume concepts included the delightfully quirky socks with eyes, used to represent the various fish, and the beautifully crafted jellyfish prop costume, which shimmered with movement and creativity. These choices demonstrated a level of artistic vision that truly elevated the show’s visual appeal.

Equally commendable was the thoughtful use of props to enhance the setting. Fans adorned with flowing blue fabric emulated the ebb and flow of ocean waves, creating a mesmerising, dreamlike atmosphere. These effects, though simple in theory, were executed with such charm and imagination that they became a core part of the storytelling.

Despite the production featuring a large cast, the entrances and exits were impressively smooth and well-rehearsed. The sheer scale of performers could easily have posed logistical challenges, but thanks to expert direction and sharp choreography, transitions were clean and polished. Each child had their moment to shine, and the cohesion of the ensemble gave the performance an added sparkle.

A particularly fun touch was the reinterpretation of the shark costumes. Rather than opting for traditional marine menace, the sharks strutted on in overall-style outfits complete with sunglasses—a clever and humorous reimagining that kept younger audience members giggling and adults smiling. It was a brilliant example of the production’s playful spirit.

As for the performers, they were nothing short of extraordinary. Ivy Bushdyhan, in the role of Nemo, anchored the production with her crystal-clear vocals and outstanding stage presence. Her delivery of Nemo’s dialogue captured the character’s inquisitive energy and resilient spirit, making her performance one of the most memorable of the night.

Jessica Feeney brought warmth and nuance to the role of Marlin, Nemo’s overprotective father. Her emotional range was evident in every scene, taking the audience on a touching journey from worry and loss to growth and trust. The sincerity in her portrayal ensured that the production had not only humour but real heart at its core.

Then came Dory—portrayed with comic brilliance by Lauren Pilbury. Lauren lit up the stage with impeccable timing and irresistible charm. Her interpretation of the forgetful yet lovable fish was spot on, providing both laughter and moments of heartfelt connection that added great depth to the show.

Annie Mae Taylor as Gill delivered a standout performance, with vocals that were not only technically superb but rich in expression. Her depiction of the authoritative yet empathetic leader of the tank gang gave the story a powerful sense of mentorship and transformation. She’s undoubtedly one to watch in future productions.

Supporting cast members also brought their characters to life with flair. Poppy Bettany, as Peach, was a scene-stealing delight with sharp comedic instincts and clever delivery. Lily Andrew’s portrayal of Crush was full of confidence and charisma, underscored by strong vocal execution.

It would be remiss not to mention one of the production’s most delightful features—the mischievous seagulls. Their perfectly timed entrance through the audience while chanting “Mine! Mine! Mine!” was met with peals of laughter and enthusiastic applause. These energetic young performers stole hearts with their brief yet unforgettable appearances, adding an extra sprinkle of silliness to the show.

Behind the scenes, the contribution of the creative team was instrumental in crafting such a stunning experience. Director and choreographer Hannah Thomas deserves high praise for orchestrating a performance that allowed every child, regardless of ability, to shine confidently on stage. Her choreography was both engaging and thoughtful, ensuring every movement contributed meaningfully to the overall visual story—especially the shark sequence, which was a definite highlight.

Credit must also go to David Jarvis, whose work on sound and lighting achieved a harmonious balance. The audio levels were managed brilliantly, allowing dialogue and vocals to soar even against rich underscore. The lighting design further enriched each scene, enhancing mood, focus, and that essential sense of undersea wonder.

In conclusion, Finding Nemo JR was a masterclass in youth theatre, blending heart, humour, and artistry into a truly memorable production. It not only showcased the extraordinary talent of its young cast but also demonstrated the power of creativity and community in live theatre. An absolute triumph from beginning to end. Thank you again NK Theatre Arts for your invitation and warm welcome.

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