REVIEW: CCPAC’S “FINDING NEMO JR.” IS A CHARMING MUSICAL ADVENTURE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Curtain Call Performing Arts Company's Intermediate Musical Theatre Program, features students ages 10 - 18. Through the months of rehearsal, these individuals learn from some of the best artistic minds in the area and work toward progressing their dancing, acting and singing skills through triple threat training. This year’s production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. showcases budding talent and an enthusiasm for musical theatre that you cannot help, like the currents the characters follow, getting swept away in.
Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. is a musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie Finding Nemo, with music by award-winning songwriting team Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez (most recognized from their work on Disney’s phenomenon Frozen). The musical follows the plot of the film: when clownfish Marlin (performed with the character’s signature overprotective anxiety and determination by Ella Dragozet) is separated from his young child, Nemo (Teia Pasalic, a young star in the making), Marlin searches the ocean desperately with the help of his new friend, Dory (perfectly cast and portrayed by the delightful McKenzie Paterson).
The costumes by Danielle and Irene Viola are vivid, unique and imaginative while the scenic and lighting design by Zachary Viola transforms the theatre space with artistic blue waves and bright, whimsical aquatic creatures hanging from the rafters. These choices carry the audience to the big blue world of the ocean floor where our enthusiastic ensemble waits to take us on a journey to find Nemo.
The cast of Finding Nemo JR. featuring Grace Beaudry as Professor Ray
All photography by: Kreations Photography
Every member of the production has a moment to shine and the ensemble members work especially hard transforming from various fish to turtles to seagulls. There’s a real sense of comradery on the stage too with older ensemble members guiding the younger ones when needed. They are eager to impress and even when unsure of their next step or a small technical glitch occurs, they handle themselves like the young professionals they are.
Vocally, the cast is solid and have great opportunities to develop their voices further. Teia Pasalic as Nemo really stands out here as her vocals throughout showcase a beautiful mezzo-soprano in the works. She is delightful from her first entrance to the curtain call. Pasalic’s chemistry with Dragozet, Paterson and Kaydence Amyotte as Gill is believable and charming. Other standout moments include We Swim Together featuring the introductions of Nemo’s new found family in the aquarium (with Mae McCrory, in particular, ensuring every line delivery as Bubbles gets a laugh) and Go with the Flow featuring the cowabunga energy of Crush (a hilariously chill portrayal by Katrina Connell) and the turtle ensemble.
Marlin (Ella Dragozet), Nemo (Teia Pasalic) and Dory (McKenzie Paterson)
Junior productions of this nature are important to the musical theatre community. They allow seasoned professionals to share their skills and knowledge with younger talents and encourage a new generation of theatre performers. Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. allows audiences of all ages to dive deep into the world of Marlin, Dory and Nemo and provides an excellent opportunity for all involved to grow and shine. The production team has created a musical adventure that certainly impressed all who attended the opening night performance. A charming musical adventure and another success from Curtain Call Performing Arts Company.
PLEASE NOTE: The rest of the performances (May 10-11) are officially SOLD OUT.
