From left, Finn Peyton, Hattie Jacobs, Elin Walters and Michael Buchwitz operate puppets as a part of the Actors Guild of Parkersburg’s production of “Finding Nemo Jr.” (Photo provided)

PARKERSBURG — “Finding Nemo Jr.” opened at the Actors Guild of Parkersburg on Friday. The production features a cast of 40 young performers, ages 9-18, who bring the Great Barrier Reef, the deep ocean, and Sydney Harbour to life through choreography, colorful costumes, and large-scale puppetry.

Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. is a 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved Pixar film, featuring new music by Academy Award-winning songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. “The production follows Marlin, an anxious and overprotective clownfish, whose world is turned upside down when his son Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney,” said a release from the Guild. “Joined by the ever-optimistic Dory and a host of unforgettable ocean creatures, Marlin embarks on an epic journey across the sea — discovering courage, trust, and the power of community along the way.”

Director Bethany Spurrier says the story resonates deeply with both young performers and audiences.

“At its heart, Finding Nemo Jr. is about learning to let go, trusting others, and finding bravery within yourself,” Spurrier said. “Watching these young actors grow into those themes throughout the rehearsal process has been incredibly rewarding.”

Music Director Quessa Brown emphasized the emotional depth of the score.

From left, Izzy Fleming and Henry Nicely perform as Dory and Marlin in the Actors Guild of Parkersburg’s production of “Finding Nemo Jr.” (Photo provided)

“The music in this show is both playful and powerful. It challenges our students vocally while giving them the opportunity to tell a meaningful story through song,” Brown said. “Hearing them bring numbers like ‘Just Keep Swimming’ to life has been truly inspiring.”

Performances continue at the Actors Guild of Parkersburg, 724 Market Street in Parkersburg.

Tickets can be purchased online at actors-guild.com or in person at the box office beginning one hour before each performance.

For additional information, visit actors-guild.com.

Natalya Ozuna performs as a baby turtle in the Actors Guild of Parkersburg’s production of “Finding Nemo Jr.” (Photo provided)

Georgia Martin performs as Peach the starfish in “Finding Nemo Jr.” at the Actors Guild of Parkersburg. The production continues at 8 p.m. Friday, Saturday, March 13 and 14 and at 2:30 p.m. Sunday and March 15. (Photo provided)