'Finding Nemo Jr.' opens this weekend at Zanesville Community Theatre

Zanesville Times Recorder

ZANESVILLE − Disney-Pixar's "Finding Nemo Jr." is coming to the stage at the Zanesville Community Theatre.

The story centers around Marlin, an anxious and over protective clownfish who lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as optimistic Dory, laid back sea turtle Crush and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

Cast members rehearse a scene from "Finding Nemo Jr.," opening this weekend at the Zanesville Community Theatre.
Cast members rehearse a scene from "Finding Nemo Jr.," opening this weekend at the Zanesville Community Theatre.

The musical adaptation of the 2003 Pixar movie "Finding Nemo" features new music by award-winning songwriting team Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez.

Songs include “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food” and “Go With the Flow.” Director Sarah Gantzer said working with the cast of 59 children from ages 3 to 16 has been a great adventure.

Cast members rehearse a scene from "Finding Nemo Jr." The production hits the stage of Zanesville Community Theatre next month, with opening night sold out.
Cast members rehearse a scene from "Finding Nemo Jr." The production hits the stage of Zanesville Community Theatre next month, with opening night sold out.

“These kids are amazing. They come to rehearsals filled with joy and enthusiasm and we all have so much fun together. They are so dedicated to telling this beautiful story. Childhood should be a sparkly, magical time and I love sharing my joy of theatre with kids," Gantzer said.

"My favorite line in the show is, 'When you’re raising sons and daughters, it’s like surfing the mighty waters.' I am so grateful to be able to share this experience with so many families,” she added.

Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Feb. 2, 3, 9 and 10 and 2:30 p.m. Feb. 4 and 11 at the Zanesville Community Theatre, 940 Findley Ave. Opening night is sold out.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for youth and $10 for seniors, students and the military. To purchase tickets, visit ZCT.org.

This article originally appeared on Zanesville Times Recorder: 'Finding Nemo Jr.' opens Friday at Zanesville Community Theatre

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