Chicago Students Bring Disney’s “Finding Nemo” to Life

Students at Grover Cleveland Elementary in Chicago are preparing to stage a production of Disney’s “Finding Nemo,” thanks to the support of the Disney Musicals in Schools Stage Connect program. The initiative provides essential resources for schools to produce musicals, enabling young performers to explore their creativity and build confidence.

The after-school rehearsals have become a hub of excitement as students dive into their roles. Under the guidance of third-grade teacher and director Maria Xoy, the young cast is eager to embrace their characters. “You can see how their confidence is slowly but surely building up. It’s really beautiful to see,” Xoy commented on the progress of her students.

The Stage Connect program offers free access to vital materials, including scripts, music tracks, and training modules. Educators participating in the program receive virtual coaching from Disney teaching artists, ensuring they are well-equipped to guide their students. Third-grade teacher Rebecca Jungel played a key role in bringing this opportunity to Grover Cleveland Elementary, which was selected among numerous schools nationwide. “They sent all the materials that we needed. There are online courses that we took: fundamentals of musical theater, how to run a rehearsal, what auditions should look like,” Jungel explained.

For many students, this production marks their first experience on stage. Eleven-year-old Owen Martinez expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It was a feeling that something good was going to happen” as he prepared for auditions. Fellow cast member Jenesis Gimenez, who portrays Marlin, shared her excitement: “Just try your hardest and have the best time of your life.”

The joy of participating in this production resonates with the young actors. Ten-year-old Isabel Mazon, who plays Nemo, said the movie is one of her favorites because of its “very colorful and joyful” nature. Amelia Weber, also 10, is thrilled to take on the role of Dory, stating, “I really like playing the parts. And whenever I’m interacting with someone, I just feel like I am the character.”

Xoy noted that the program has fostered not just a production but also a sense of community among the students. “My hope and dream would be that every public school could have the opportunity to have this in their school,” she said, emphasizing the positive impact of the arts in education.

The school’s performance of “Finding Nemo” is scheduled for May 2024. Schools interested in participating in the Stage Connect program for the next academic year must submit their applications by March 9, 2024. The Walt Disney Company, the parent organization of this initiative, continues to support educational endeavors that enrich student experiences through the arts.