Finding Nemo Jr

Act One Beginners’ Disney Pixar “Finding Nemo Jr.” was a heartwarming and energetic production that swept the audience into the depths of the ocean. The story follows Marlin, an anxious clownfish, as he searches for his son Nemo, who has been taken far from home. Along the way, he is joined by the lovable Dory, meets laid-back turtles, encounters vegetarian sharks, and faces the challenges of the big blue with courage and humour. The show celebrates themes of family, bravery, and friendship.

From the moment the lights dimmed, the young cast of Act One Beginners gave a performance full of vibrancy and focus, with each member clearly invested in their role. Directed and choreographed by Bethany and Jessica Whittaker, the cast moved with confidence across the stage, showing great spatial awareness and discipline for such a young group. Transitions were smooth, with the cast managing set changes themselves, reinforcing a sense of teamwork and maturity. The musical direction by Sara Zahraoui and Summer Stubbs, both older youth members stepping into leadership for the first time, was exceptional. Songs were clear, emotional, and tightly harmonised, with ensemble numbers delivered beautifully. The emotional integrity of the music matched the action, creating a cohesive and heartfelt experience. Bethany Whittaker also managed the music operation with perfect timing and pace, while MASH AudioVisual provided crisp and faultless sound. No feedback, no missed cues, just clarity throughout.

Visually, the show was a treat. Costumes, created in-house by Act One Beginners, were vibrant and easily identifiable, allowing the audience to know exactly which marine creature each performer represented. Movements mirrored the animals they played, a flip of a fin, a wiggle of a tentacle. The jellyfish scene was a standout moment, with illuminated umbrellas and pulsing tentacles that stung poor Dory in a clever and visually stunning sequence. Lighting by Tom Whittaker created an underwater atmosphere that changed with each scene, greens when the tank got dirty, shimmers for sardines, and lovely transitions throughout. Greg Wharf’s projections complemented the storytelling beautifully, clear, and well-timed, while Leanne Wharf’s props added playfulness and realism, including the impressive net that caught Nemo. Stage Manager Ruby Whittaker ensured everything ran smoothly backstage, with no missed beats and a well-orchestrated flow.

Autumn Wharf played Nemo with charm and strength, giving one of the youngest performances of the night with powerful vocals and constant character presence. Her trio of songs showed a wide emotional range and animated movement that was both cute and committed. Poppy Foulds as Marlin brought depth and emotion to the role, singing beautifully in “Big Blue Beautiful World” and portraying a loving but nervous father with clarity and grace. Patsy Slater delivered a witty and lovable Dory, highlighting strong vocals and impeccable comedic timing in “Just Keep Swimming” and “Dory’s Ditty.” Esther Lord embodied Crush the turtle with laid-back cool, leading “Go with the Flow” with natural ease and character. Isla Boden’s Squirt was full of energy and agility, jumping through the current with enthusiasm and hitting vocal marks with confidence. Isabelle Star gave a confident and amusing performance as Bruce, managing her turn from friendly to fierce with flair, while Aveen Staunton and Nina Domanska balanced Bruce perfectly as Anchor and Chum respectively, making “Fish Are Friends Not Food” a highlight. Jacob Jones brought real pep and excitement to Professor Ray, setting a lively tone in the classroom scenes.

The Drop-Off sequence was well-supported by Halle Hunt, Emilie Jeffries, and Freddie Summers as anxious parents, adding thoughtful and composed performances. Tabitha Freeman, Isla English, and Olivia Ellison were delightful as the baby creatures at school, delivering confident lines and charming stage presence. Sharks and moonfish Zoe Staunton, Koral Hadfield, Daisy Council, Eva Welch and Lily-Rose Bebb held character well and added humour and vibrancy to ensemble moments. The Tank Gang, Leyarna Bird, Elena Hopley, Elsie Baker, Willow Wilkinson, Abbie Council and Rafaella Manta, brought personality and detail to their scenes, reacting and interacting with the aquarium setting believably. Seagulls and additional turtles, Lottie Tomlinson, Noah Mulrooney, Archie Philips, Lewis Clarke, Paige Diggins, Lily Higgins, Ellie Myers, and Matilda Parkinson, were excellent in their coordination during the “mine” crisps-chasing scene and the fluid movement of “Go with the Flow,” adding texture and timing that lifted the ensemble work.

Every performer contributed something special. Whether in a lead role or ensemble part, they showed focus, energy, and commitment. The technical team kept every element tight and engaging, with no distractions or missteps. More than just an adorable show, this was a showcase of the immense potential and talent within youth theatre. Act One Beginners have clearly built a supportive environment that nurtures skill and confidence, and this production proved how effective and exciting that can be. I would like to thank everyone at Act One Beginners for their warm hospitality and look forward to many more productions from them in the future.

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