On Friday, March 24th, students and friends of RMA got to watch a play that brought smiles to every face. Ms. Whitehead’s and Ms. Tickel’s Exceptional Children’s classes performed Finding Nemo, once in the morning and again later that night. This warmed hearts and inspired laughter with the silly jokes incorporated into the script. 

I might be biased, but I thought it was amazingly planned and well executed. Connor and Logan–aka, Marlin and Nemo–stunned the audience with their complex and lengthy lines, while the sharks–Tyler, Gabriel, and Liam–stole the audience’s hearts.  Gabriel’s goofy portrayal didn’t scare anyone but only made the audience wish all sharks were as cute as he is. Similarly, the sight of Tyler carrying the baby shark added a unique RMA touch, reminding us that we are a family through and through.

Another character that did an amazing job was the cutest turtle I have ever seen: Squirt. Kaden, adorably dressed in a turtle costume, executed his lines perfectly and had the audience belly-laughing. He also knew his lines by heart for over a month ahead of the play! If asked to recite his lines, he could say them all word-for-word to prove he was ready for opening night.

Sara–who played Coral, Nemo’s mom–said her lines with her contagious smile that never fails to cheer me up. She practiced hard in preparation for the play, and it certainly showed. Cole–playing Dory–had an adorable costume with a sideways hat. He said his lines helped depict the movement of the plot of Finding Nemo while also making the audience smile. 

Connor and Grace sang musical numbers with Connor performing “Somewhere Beyond the Sea” and Grace performing “So Excited.” Bryce also got to dance onstage, showcasing his awesome moves, and executed his lines smoothly, playing the part of Mr. Ray, the schoolteacher. 

Other fantastic efforts during the performance were made by Bralee as Darla, Mackenzie as the dentist, Mason as Pearl, David as Nigel, and Ethan, Eliam, and Hudson as the members of the school of fish. 

Overall, Ms. Whitehead, Ms. Mason, Ms. Tickle, and Ms. Josey organized an amazing play with an amazing group of students. Their hard work and preparation definitely contributed to the success of the play, as did help from members of the Stronger Together Club, who volunteered to help individual students with their roles in the play.

This performance touched the hearts of students and friends of RMA, and we can only wish everyone got to attend. Finding Nemo was a raging success, and I can’t wait to see what the Exceptional Children’s class prepares for us next year!