Conservatoire EAST at West Suffolk College, in Bury St Edmunds, presents Finding Nemo Junior from tonight

Theatre-goers are getting ready to dive in and watch a new production of the Pixar and Disney classic musical called Finding Nemo Junior.

The show has been created by Conservatoire EAST, the performing arts academy based at West Suffolk College, in Bury St Edmunds.

Finding Nemo Junior is on from today, February 7, and runs until Saturday, February 10. Shows last an hour and take place at the college theatre, based in Out Risbygate.

The plot is similar to the film that was released in 2003 and sees Nemo’s father Marlin brave the dangers of the ocean as he goes in search of his son.

Erica Dupuy is one of the two directors. Erica, a performing arts course director, said: “This is a heart-warming tale that is all about family, connection and belonging that is suitable for people of all ages.

“We have a double cast who will alternate nights, so we have two people playing the same roles for the first time ever and that enables our cast to support each other.”

Oliver Jenkins, 17, who lives just outside Braintree and is studying on a Level 3 musical theatre course, is playing Marlin.

He said: “Pretty much everyone knows and loves Finding Nemo and this musical production is very colourful, bright, fast paced, comedic and I think people will love it.”

In terms of his time at the college, Oliver added: “Conservatoire East is a performing arts school within a college that gives you the skills you need that will open doors.

“I would love to perform on the West End and I believe Conservatoire EAST will get me to the next stage of achieving that.”

Brooke Dunne, 18, from Exning, is on the same course as Oliver and is playing Nemo.

Brooke said: “Nemo is fun to play. He goes on a journey to find his voice and the production has an important message about finding the confidence to be yourself and having an appreciation for your family.”

On Saturday there are two shows, one at 2.30pm and one at 7.30pm.

For tickets visit: https://conservatoireeast.wsc.ac.uk/whats-on/

Tickets are £10.