The Elementary School Theater Company at TASIS recently presented four acclaimed performances of Disney's Finding Nemo KIDS in the Palmer Cultural Center on January 28–29. The production featured a talented ensemble of 39 students from grades 3–5, supported by a dedicated faculty team. Director Julie Frazier-Smith, Musical Director Rachelle Hugg, and Choreographer Robert Robinson guided the young performers, with additional creative and technical support provided by Courtney Rose, Diketseo Mgubungu, Kalliopi Belia, and eight members of the High School Performing Arts class. The company delivered a series of targeted performances, beginning with a morning show for Pre-Kindergarten through grade one students, followed by a community premiere that evening. The run continued with a performance for grades 2–5 the next morning and concluded with a final show for a packed audience. The musical is an adaptation of the popular Pixar film, featuring new songs by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. It follows the journey of Marlin, an overprotective clownfish, who embarks on an epic ocean adventure to find his captured son, Nemo. The story highlights themes of family, courage, and friendship, brought to life through memorable musical numbers such as 'Just Keep Swimming' and 'Fish Are Friends Not Food.'
In her director's note, Julie Frazier-Smith welcomed audiences to the vibrant underwater world of Finding Nemo KIDS, emphasizing the collaborative spirit and growth demonstrated by the young cast. She highlighted the production's core theme of the parent-child bond, noting how both Marlin and Nemo discover courage and trust through their separate journeys. Frazier-Smith expressed gratitude for the production team, volunteers, and families whose support was instrumental in the show's success. She underscored the importance of every individual involved, from actors to crew members, in creating the magic of live theater and celebrated the cast's dedication and teamwork. While video recordings of the performances are not available for public sharing, a comprehensive gallery of professional photographs documenting the production is accessible on the school's SmugMug page. The post concludes by crediting all students and faculty involved and reflecting on the defining moments of the performances. The successful staging of this musical at TASIS exemplifies the school's commitment to fostering artistic expression, collaboration, and confidence in its elementary students through engaging performing arts programs.
