Summer Camp: Finding Nemo Kids July 6-10, 2026

We are excited to welcome you to our youth theater program! As a parent of a theater student, you may be wondering what to expect from this enriching experience. Following is an overview of our youth theater program, what your child will learn and what you can look forward to during the production.

Our Productions

Our youth theater shows are licensed productions that include high quality musical orchestration recordings and scripts.  The shows are full, age-appropriate productions directed by our professional Directors with years of theater experience.  This is a “teaching program” that is inclusive of all students.  No experience required.  Every student who enrolls is guaranteed a role (or multiple roles).  Auditions are not required to join the production, but auditions are required in order for our Directors to assign roles.  Cold reading is done in the first rehearsal and singing auditions are usually held during the second rehearsal of most productions.  We limit our shows to 27 or fewer students.  If we have more than 27 students we will form an additional cast.  We do this so our Directors can dedicate more time to each student and improve their growth in the theatrical arts.  Multiple casts also provide us a built-in “under study” for every role in every cast should we need to fill a role along the way.  Multiple casts also means more opportunities for leading and secondary roles.  Students will have a great time, make friends, and build relationships while learning and growing in the theatrical arts.

Learning Experience

Participating in a theater production is a comprehensive educational journey. Your child will develop a variety of skills, including:

• Acting Techniques:  Students will learn how to embody their characters, understand script analysis, and deliver lines with emotion and clarity.
• Collaboration:  Theater is a team effort. Your child will work closely with peers, learning the importance of communication, trust, and support in a collaborative environment.
• Creative Expression:  Students will explore their creativity through character development, improvisation, and storytelling, allowing them to express themselves in unique ways.

Costumes

Costumes play a vital role in bringing a production to life.  Costumes are not included in the program fee and must be obtained by the student family.  Most costumes can be purchased for under $50, custom made, or assembled with items around your home, thrift stores, or borrowing from friends and family.  Our Directors and production coordinators will offer guidance and suggestions to help with the look and feel for continuity with the show and other actors and actresses.  In certain situations the school might provide role-specific accessories or props.

Choreography

For productions that include dance or movement, students will learn choreography during rehearsals. They will learn how to integrate movement with their acting, enhancing their performance and adding depth to the storytelling. This aspect of theater encourages physical expression and helps build confidence.

Theater Tech

Behind the scenes, students will gain insight into the technical aspects of theater, including lighting, sound, and set design. They will learn how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere of the production. This knowledge is invaluable, as it fosters an appreciation for the collaborative nature of theater.

Microphones

To ensure that every performance is heard clearly, we provide microphones for each student. This allows them to focus on their performance without worrying about projection, enabling them to deliver their lines with confidence. Students will receive training on how to use the microphones effectively, which is an essential skill in modern theater.

Other Aspects of Theatrical Arts

In addition to acting, choreography, and technical skills, your child will also learn about stage management, audience engagement, improvisation, and the importance of rehearsal discipline. They will experience the thrill of live performance, understanding the hard work and dedication that goes into each show.

Private/Closed Rehearsals

Please note that per licensing contract and in the interest of safety, only actors/actresses, staff, crew, volunteers, and other production coordinators are allowed in the recital hall during rehearsals.

Student Conduct

We strive to create a safe, positive and respectful learning environment for all participants and aim to foster creativity, collaboration, and personal growth while ensuring that all students understand their responsibilities and the expectations of behavior.  We expect students to arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage in the lesson. Respect for the instructor, fellow students, and the learning space is paramount; this includes listening attentively, refraining from disruptive behaviors, and maintaining a positive attitude. Students are encouraged to express themselves and ask questions, but must do so in a manner that is considerate of others. Any behavior that undermines the learning experience, such as excessive talking, distractions, or disrespectful comments, will be addressed promptly. Our goal is to foster a supportive community where every student can thrive and develop their musical talents.

For all our policies please visit our polices page:

https://jieun-lee-music-academy.odoo.com/policies

Length of Show

Kids productions (7 to 12 year olds) are usually a single act show lasting 30 to 40 minute.  Junior productions (5th grade and up) are usually two act shows lasting 60 to 70 minutes with a 15 minute intermission.

Rehearsals

Fishers:  Rehearsals are in The Switch Theatre inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.  Final shows are in same theater.

Carmel:  Rehearsals are in Goodwin Hall inside Meridian Music School.  Spring and Fall shows are held at The Switch Theatre.  Summer camp shows are held in Goodwin Hall.

Auditions

Auditions are not required to participate in our theater programs.  Every student who enrolls in the program is guaranteed a role (perhaps multiple roles).  There is a cold reading audition during the first rehearsal and a singing audition during the second rehearsal.  The songs for the singing audition will be taught during the first rehearsal.  This approach allows our Directors to make the best decision for role assignments.  Our Directors make their decisions based on students’ performance during the first and second rehearsals and which students they believe best fit the unique needs of each character in the show.

Program Fee

Includes the following:

• Script
• Music tracks
• Rehearsals
• Number of Shows
• • Summer Camps:  1 Show
  • Spring & Fall:  2 Shows
  • Summer Teen:  2 Shows
• Show T-Shirt
• Video (only when video license available).  Most shows have video license.

Audio/Video Recording

Please note these programs are copyrighted works of art.  Recording any portion of the show is prohibited, but most (not all) productions come with an optional video recording license. If such license is available we will secure the rights to video record the show.  Our theater in Fishers is equipped with professional recording equipment.  When allowed, we will provide a professionally recorded copy of the final show.

Tech Week

Tech week includes at least one regular rehearsal and one dress rehearsal followed by shows on Friday, Saturday, and/or Sunday.

Call Time

60 to 70 minutes before showtime

Locations

Fishers:  The Switch Theatre inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.
Carmel:  Goodwin Hall inside Meridian Music School

Tickets

Final shows are ticketed events with assigned seating.  We will notify families multiple times before the start of ticket sales so everyone has equal opportunity to purchase tickets.  All sales are final.  NO REFUNDS!  Due to assigned seating and the fact most of our shows sell out, we do not refund ticket purchases.  Purchase tickets here:

Switch Theatre:  https://switchtheatre.simpletix.com
Goodwin Hall:  https://goodwinhall.simpletix.com/

The Switch Theatre

All productions (except Carmel summer camps) take place in The Switch Theatre in Fishers.  This black box style theater is located inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.  With comfortable seating for up to 175, our theater has a raised, 30′ x 20′ stage, theatrical lights and special effects, high quality audio, and back stage green rooms for our young actors and actresses.  When entering the theater you are greeted with a nice lobby featuring a concession stand serving many standard concession candies, cotton candy, popcorn, wide variety of drinks, and other concession items.

Enrollment in our youth theater production guarantees your young actress/actor will be cast in the production -- no audition required.  There is an audition (usually during second rehearsal) that Directors need to determine casting.  Students will receive basic audition prep and guidance before audition day.

How to prepare for an audition.

Preparing for a musical theater audition can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. To set yourself up for success, it’s essential to start with a solid understanding of the material you’ll be performing. Choose a song that showcases your vocal range and acting abilities, and make sure it aligns with the character you’re auditioning for. Spend time analyzing the lyrics and the emotions behind them; this will help you deliver a more authentic and compelling performance. Additionally, practice your song repeatedly, focusing on both technical aspects, such as pitch and rhythm, and expressive elements, like dynamics and phrasing. Remember, confidence is key, so the more prepared you are, the more comfortable you will feel on audition day.

In addition to your song, be ready to demonstrate your acting skills and movement abilities. Many auditions will include a cold reading or a dance combination, so familiarize yourself with the material and be open to direction from the audition panel. Always remember to shake the director's hand when you first meet them; this simple gesture shows professionalism and respect. Warm up your body and voice before the audition to ensure you’re in peak condition. It’s also helpful to research the production and its characters, as this knowledge can inform your choices and help you connect with the material on a deeper level. Finally, remember to bring your unique personality to the audition; casting directors are looking for individuals who can bring characters to life in a way that is fresh and engaging. Embrace the experience, and no matter the outcome, view it as an opportunity to learn and grow as a performer.

Things to Do at Home to Prepare for the Audition:

• Choose Your Song: Select a song that fits the character and showcases your vocal strengths.
• Practice Regularly: Set aside time each day to practice singing your chosen song, focusing on both technique and emotion.
• Learn the Lyrics: Memorize the lyrics thoroughly to ensure you can perform confidently without looking at the music.
• Record Yourself:  Use a phone or camera to record your practice sessions. This will help you identify areas for improvement.
• Work on Acting: Practice delivering the song with emotion and character. Consider how the character would feel and express that in your performance.
• Warm-Up Exercises: Incorporate vocal and physical warm-up exercises into your routine to prepare your body and voice.
• Research the Show: Learn about the musical and its characters to better understand the context of your audition piece.
• Mock Auditions: Have family members or friends act as the audition panel and perform your song for them to simulate the audition experience.
• Prepare Your Outfit: Choose an outfit that is appropriate for the audition and makes you feel confident.
• Stay Positive: Practice positive affirmations and visualization techniques to build your confidence and reduce anxiety before the audition.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to shine in your musical theater audition!

While final shows are ticketed events, there is no mandatory ticket purchase amount.  You are free to buy as many or as few as you like.

The enrollment fee includes the following:

• Rehearsals (Kids -12 weeks; Jr. - 15 weeks)
• Professional script
• Professionally recorded practice song tracks with sing-a-long vocals
• Professionally recorded song tracks with no vocals (used during the shows)
• T-Shirt
• Video:  Recording of final show.  Only when video license is available.  Most shows have a video license

High above the waters of Sydney Harbour, Nigel, Sprit, Tiller, and Jib, a squadron of storytelling pelicans, introduce us to Marlin and his kid Nemo, two clownfish who live in the Great Barrier Reef ("One Dedicated Father").

Nemo, who was born with one fin smaller than the other - referred to as a "lucky fin" - can hardly wait to begin the first day of school. An overprotective Marlin struggles to let his kid go for the very first time ("Big Blue World"). Professor Ray whisks Nemo and the other Reef Kids to the Drop-Off for their first educational adventure, causing Marlin to panic. Upon spotting

a mysterious boat lurking just beyond the reef, Nemo's classmates sneak towards it, daring each other to go further into the deep water. When a terrified Marlin arrives and scolds the children, Nemo defiantly charges further out and is captured by a diver's net ("Abduction").

In his frantic search for Nemo, Marlin swims into Dory, a friendly yet forgetful fish who offers to help ("Dory's Ditty"). Unknowingly, Marlin and Dory float into shark territory, where they meet Bruce, a great white shark, and a whole frenzy of sharks trying to adopt fish-free diets ("Fish Are Friends Not Food"). Amidst the sharks' gathering, Marlin spots a diver's mask lying on the ocean

floor, and Dory turns to the sharks for help reading the inscription, hoping it will offer a clue to find Nemo. Doubting her judgment, Marlin struggles with Dory over the mask, accidentally causing her nose to bleed. The scent of blood ignites Bruce's insatiable appetite for fish, and

while Marlin and Dory escape, they lose the diver's mask in the process.

Meanwhile, in a tank at the Sydney Harbour Aquarium, a scared Nemo longs for home. Members of the Tank Gang reassure Nemo, and with Gill's leadership, they hatch a plan to clog the fish tank and escape into the ocean as a team. With the Tank Gang's help, Nemo successfully jams the tank's filter ("We Swim Together").

Back in the ocean, Dory tries to cheer Marlin up as the search for Nemo continues, but Marlin is frustrated by her quirky antics ("Just Keep Swimming - Part 1"). Luckily, they reunite with the diver's mask, which has the address of where Nemo was taken. In their excitement over the recovered mask, Marlin and Dory unknowingly swim into a dangerous forest of Jellyfish that sting Dory and overwhelm them both ("Just Keep Swimming - Part 2").

Although their journey took a wrong turn, Marlin and Dory are rescued by a large colony of Sea Turtles who guide them through the fast-moving East Australian Current. CRUSH, a wise and laid-back sea turtle, gives Marlin some advice on mellowing out and learning to trust his kid ("Go With the Flow").

After a totally tubular ride through the current, news about Marlin and Dory's trek to find Nemo spreads throughout the ocean, reaching the Tank Gang all the way at the Sydney Harbour Aquarium. While Nemo and the Tank Gang have successfully dirtied up the tank for their escape plan, they are still trapped by an immovable grate blocking the tank's intake pipe. Only Nemo is

small enough to swim through the grate, but the appearance of an aquarium net threatens to stop Nemo from escaping. Determined to get Nemo back out to sea, the Tank Gang works together to break free of the net and coaches Nemo to swim through the grate and up the intake pipe. ("We Swim Together - Reprise"). They know that they'll join Nemo out in the ocean someday.

In the ocean, Marlin worries that all hope is lost when, suddenly, Nemo flies out of the tank pipe! Their happy reunion in the harbour is suddenly interrupted when a giant fishing net appears, sweeping Dory up, along with a mass of FISH. Having learned from the Tank Gang how to free them, Nemo swims into the fray and instructs the captured fish to swim down together,

guiding Dory and the fish to freedom ("Just Keep Swimming Together"). With admiration for each other's bravery, Marlin and Nemo make their way home with their new friend Dory ("Finale - Part 1").

With faith in Nemo to take on all the adventures that await in the ocean, Marlin and Dory send Nemo off to school to go explore the big blue world ("Finale - Part 2").

Nemo

A curious young clownfish who brims with excitement to explore the wonders that lie beyond the Great Barrier Reef. Born with a “lucky fin” – or what humans would call a limb difference – Nemo quickly learns that the world possesses incredible dangers in addition to the promise of big adventures. By making new friends, finding strength within, and practicing teamwork, Nemo transforms into a capable and brave leader, able to self-advocate and take on challenges big and small.

Gender: any

Vocal range top: Eb5

Vocal range bottom: A3

Marlin

An anxious clownfish and Nemo’s overprotective father who prefers the safety of his anemone to the frightening unknowns of the open ocean. As he travels across the sea in search of Nemo, Marlin develops the courage to face the unpredictable ocean and the wisdom to trust others – including his own kid.

Gender: male

Vocal range top: Eb5

Vocal range bottom: A3

Dory

An optimistic and bubbly blue tang, experiences frequent short-term memory loss and finds herself wandering through the ocean with no place to call home. Sparking friendships with whomever she meets, Dory immediately offers to help Marlin find his lost child, and the two set out on an adventurous journey through the ocean. Along the way, Dory’s kindness and bright spirit ease Marlin’s fears, and the unlikely duo finds comfort and family in each other. Look for a performer with great charisma and a stage presence that can light up a room.

Gender: female

Vocal range top: Eb5

Vocal range bottom: A3

Nigel, Sprit, Tiller & Jib

A knowledgeable pod of pelicans, are the show’s helpful narrators. These informative birds are responsible for conveying important plot points and must be played by enthusiastic actors with excellent diction and volume.

Gender: any

Sea Chorus

Functions as the general ensemble, creating the environment of the play and becoming the characters that Marlin and Dory interact with on their journey to Sydney. They will also help with the transitions from the Ocean to the Aquarium Tank. Your Sea Chorus can be filled with any species of sea creatures you would like, but below are the featured roles that can emerge from this Ensemble:

• JELLYFISH
• YOUNG SEA TURTLES (1 & 2),
• SMALL FISH,
•  SEAHORSES (1 & 2)
• SEAGULLS
• FISH are a school of fish, including FISH 1
• REEF KIDS
• REEF PARENTS,
• SHELDON’S PARENT,
• PEARL’S PARENT,
• TAD’S PARENT.

Reef Kids

• PEARL, a friendly flapjack octopus who is quick to befriend Nemo.
• SHELDON, an H2O-intolerant seahorse with an appetite for trouble who taunts Nemo to swim beyond the reef.
• TAD, a self-admittedly obnoxious butterflyfish who joins Sheldon in encouraging Nemo to swim past the Drop-Off

Professor Ray

A stingray and Nemo’s enthusiastic teacher, takes pride in sharing the curiosities and marvels of the world with the class and encourages every student to be a brave explorer.

Gender: any

Scuba Mask Dancer

A performer responsible for floating the diver’s mask through the water whenever it appears onstage. You can make this role’s choreography as complex or as simple as you like depending on your selected actor’s dance level and experience.

Gender: any

Bruce

An intimidating great white shark, is the sharks’ ringleader. Despite Bruce’s best efforts to adopt a vegetarian diet, Bruce loses control and is sent into a frenzy, threatening to devour every fish in sight.

Chum and Anchor

Two of Bruce’s shark friends, try to live vegetarian lifestyles but are eventually forced to restrain an out-of- control Bruce from eating innocent fish.

Gender: any

Bubbles

A yellow tang who is captivated by bubbles, is one of the first to welcome Nemo to the tank. This friendly fish exclusively uses the word “bubbles” to communicate.

Bloat

An open-minded and supportive blowfish, is proud to be part of the Tank Gang family and helps keep everyone’s spirits up, even when things seem bleak.

Gender: any

Gurgle

Frightened of strangers and the germs they carry with them, is a royal gramma who enjoys the safety and regulated cleanliness of the tank.

Gender: any

Peach

A mature and down-to-earth starfish, offers guidance and reassurance to all those who need it.

Gender: any

Gill

A relentless and inspiring leader who will stop at nothing to return to the freedom of the ocean. This Moorish idol fish believes in the Tank Gang and concocts countless plans to bust them out of the aquarium. Gill is the first fish Nemo has ever met with a similar “fin difference,” quickly becoming a mentor and inspiration for the young clownfish.

Gender: any

Sea Turtles & Sea Turtle Kids

Righteously mellow creatures featured in “Go With the Flow.”

• CRUSH, a 150-year-old sea turtle who knows how to hang loose, teaches Marlin a thing or two about being a good parent. Look for a strong singer who can confidently belt “Go With the Flow” to make it a truly radical jam.
• SQUIRT, offspring of Crush, fearlessly twirls through turbulent waters of the ocean and enjoys trying out cool new moves in the high- speed EAC.
• KAI and BREEZE each have individual singing solos in “Go With the Flow.”