The Students of GVT’s Education Program Just Keep Swimming!
The Disney – Pixar film Finding Nemo has been delighting families for over 20 years. Released in 2003, the film follows an overly cautious clown fish named Marlin on a journey – along with his forgetful friend Dory – to find his son Nemo. Now more than 15 local Greenbrier County students are bringing a 60-minute musical version of the film to life on Greenbrier Valley Theatre’s stage this March.
GVT’s Education Director Dorothy Jo Oberfoell, who directs the musical, says that “the process has been very collaborative… it’s been a good community-building experience for students of all ages to come together and create something unique.”
Each of the students involved play several different sea creatures in the musical. From suave sharks, to dangerous jellyfish, to super chill sea turtles, and more, these students are bringing an entire ocean to life on stage.
Micah DeRouen, who plays Marlin, says that exercises during rehearsals helped the cast learn how to move like different fish. “We did ‘character walks,’ which challenged us to consider how different creatures move, and how their emotions affected their movement,” says DeRouen.
Fans of the original Finding Nemo will find that the musical expands upon the fun of the movie. Oberfoell says that “by incorporating catchy music, high-energy dancing, and creative costuming, this production pays homage to the story we know and love in a new, exciting way.”
“Even though I liked the movie,” says DeRouen, “I didn’t expect the stage version to be as fun as it is, but there is something for everyone to enjoy in the show.”
“The story is very heartfelt and community-oriented,” says Oberfoell, “it’s about encouraging people to believe in themselves and strive for personal growth in the face of great challenges.”
Now entering its 57th season, Greenbrier Valley Theatre, is a mainstay and theatre destination located in Lewisburg. The arts organization has been recognized as a “West Virginia Jewel of the Hills,” awarded the Living the Dream Service Organization Honor Roll by The Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission, and is a multi-year recipient of Non-Profit Business of the Year. GVT boasts a robust series of year-round programing and educational offerings with the goal to enlighten, enrich, and enliven the region.
Finding Nemo opens at GVT on Mar. 15 and runs through Mar. 23. Tickets are $20 for general seating, $18 for seniors, and $10 for students and children. For more information on tickets, shows, and the organization’s history, visit the theatre’s website at www.gvtheatre.org or call the box office at 304-645-3838.
