Gosford Musical Society Juniors’ latest production, Finding Nemo Jr., proves once again that there is something incredibly special about youth theatre. Condensing the beloved Disney-Pixar film into a fast-paced one-hour musical is no easy task, but this talented company delivers a colourful underwater adventure packed with enthusiasm, heart and plenty of memorable moments. More importantly, it gives almost 50 young performers the opportunity to shine, and they seize that opportunity with both fins.
The familiar story follows the anxious clownfish Marlin as he embarks on an epic journey across the ocean to rescue his son Nemo, who has been captured by a diver. Along the way, he meets the forgetful but lovable Dory, encounters sharks trying very hard not to eat fish, surfer-dude sea turtles, curious seagulls and an unforgettable collection of sea creatures. While the story races along at a brisk pace, it never loses the emotional core that has made Finding Nemo such a beloved family favourite.
Director Jacqui Grunden deserves enormous credit for steering a cast of around 50 young performers through this ambitious production. Managing a cast of this size is an achievement in itself, but Grunden ensures that the stage remains full of life and movement without descending into chaos. Ella Stewart-Richardson’s musical direction is another standout, with confident ensemble singing and some impressive solo performances throughout. Nicole Seggie and Finnian Alexander’s choreography is energetic, playful and perfectly suited to the youthful cast, cleverly incorporating the impressive acrobatic abilities of many of the younger performers. Alyssan Russell’s vibrant costumes immediately immerse the audience beneath the sea, even if a handful occasionally leave you wondering exactly which marine creature you’re looking at. Dawn Keft and Sam Leslie’s set effectively transported the audience between the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Harbour and the dentist’s office, although some of the larger scene changes occasionally interrupted the otherwise brisk pace of the production.
As always, Gosford Musical Society Juniors filled the stage with boundless energy and commitment. Every performer threw themselves wholeheartedly into the production, creating an infectious sense of joy that quickly spread through the audience.
One of the production’s biggest highlights came during the major scene changes, with Charlotte Young’s long-suffering Vacationer continually harassed by an increasingly mischievous flock of seagulls. It is a wonderfully simple running gag that earned laughs every time it appeared. Brock Preston led the shark trio as Bruce with plenty of larger-than-life charm, while India Thomas as Anchor and Esmée Vaccarella as Chum provided excellent support to create one of the show’s most entertaining sequences. The fish tank residents were another delight, with Lachlan Herd as Gill, Ayva McKim as Bloat, Ronan Hutchens as Gurgle, Edith Narramore as Peach and Willow Hookins as Bubbles working beautifully together as Nemo’s unlikely mentors and escape planners. Tali Neale brought effortless humour and laid-back charisma to Crush—easily one of the most enjoyable scenes in the production, although I’ll admit I’m always a sucker for turtles.
The emotional heart of the show rested with Cooper Herd’s caring but overprotective Marlin and Amelia Wolinska’s endlessly optimistic Dory. Both are confident, experienced young performers who carried the production with ease. For this performance, Leah David delivered a wonderful turn as Nemo. Her strong vocals, genuine innocence and instantly likeable stage presence made it impossible not to cheer for her throughout the journey.
These school holidays, there is no better way to support local arts than by seeing the incredible work of our young performers. Finding Nemo Jr. is a joyful celebration of community theatre, showcasing not only the remarkable talent developing on the Central Coast but also the confidence, friendships, and passion that youth theatre nurtures. It is an hour of family entertainment that reminds us all to just keep swimming.
– The other Daniel Craig
Daniel Craig is an international performer and has established himself as a trusted theatre specialist on the Sydney Arts Scene. While he understands the technical side of theatre, Dan writes for the everyday theatregoer (unlike some of those more prominent publications). When not in the audience, he loves to travel the world and try new gins.
Finding Nemo Jr runs for 60 minutes (with no interval) and plays at the Laycock Street Community Theatre through 11 July 2026. Tickets are available through Laycock Street Theatre.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of Gosford Musical Society
Image credit: James Beggs Imaging
