Fifth graders at Wampus Elementary School brought a shimmering, song-filled underwater adventure to the stage in an exciting production of “Finding Nemo JR.”
The fifth grade musical told the story of Marlin traveling the ocean in search of his captured child, the clownfish Nemo. Along the way, Marlin encounters interesting characters including Dory, Crush, sharks and surfer sea turtles, and learns how to be brave to help his family.
The 40 students in the cast and 15 in the crew did a terrific job, said Dana Celestino, the Wampus music teacher who directed the show.
“They looked so happy and confident,” she said. “They got laughs and cheers and had emotional, heartfelt moments too. The students fully embraced the idea of being in a show and telling this story, and that’s what theater is all about.”
The students loved the song and dance numbers, working with the props and wearing the colorful, shimmery costumes.
Crew members helped build the entire set and props and assisted with lighting and music and managing backstage.
“I am really proud of everyone for working so hard,” Ms. Celestino said. “They fully embraced this underwater world we found in ‘Finding Nemo.’”
Students enjoyed the experience of putting on two sold-out shows. They had fun, bonded with their castmates and made new friends.
Caroline Rubinstein, who played Nemo, said being in the show was scary at first because she had stage fright but she was able to overcome it and feel confident.
“We were all having fun,” said Caroline, who liked singing during the musical. “I’m proud of everyone for participating and doing their best.”
Sam Siminerio, who portrayed Marlin, said: “I enjoyed making new friends and there were some people I got to know better. I really enjoyed singing.”
He was also happy that he remembered all of his many lines. “I worked really hard practicing with my mom every night,” he said.
Charlotte Feola, who played the Vacationer, said the musical was a fun learning experience.
“I made a lot of friends and learned a lot about acting,” she said. “It was just so much fun.”
Jackson Kanfer, who had the role of the surfer sea turtle Crush, said being part of the musical was a great experience and he appreciated that everyone in the cast was supportive. “It was one of the most fun things I've done in my whole life so far.”
Charlotte Steidl, who took on the role of Dory, noted that this was the first time she had been in a play or musical. “Performing in front of an entire audience that was sold out and having fun with my friends and making new friends was fun,” she said. “I felt really proud.”
“Finding Nemo JR.” took place on Nov. 3 and 4 at the H.C. Crittenden Middle School.
