BEREA, Ky. — There is a lot of excitement building at Spotlight Acting School right now, and for good reason.
Coming up first is Disney’s Finding Nemo KIDS, which arrives April 24 through April 26 and brings one of Pixar’s most beloved stories to the stage. It follows Marlin, the anxious and overprotective clownfish, as he crosses the ocean to find Nemo after his son is captured and taken far from home. Along the way come Dory, Crush, the Tank Gang, and a whole underwater world full of humor, heart, and adventure.
That story has always had a lot going for it. It is colorful, funny, fast-moving, and full of characters children already know and love. But it also has real heart. At its core, Finding Nemo KIDS is about family, courage, friendship, and learning to trust. That makes it a wonderful fit for young performers and for the families coming to see them on stage.
💙 Guided by Heart and Dedication
This production is being directed by Daesha Miller, who has had a wonderful run at Spotlight and is truly invaluable to us as one of our directors. She is always looking ahead, always bringing a positive attitude, and she has already booked out all of her shows for next season, which says a lot about both her energy and her commitment.
Daesha is also a deeply devoted Christian, and she brings that spirit with her into her work in ways that make a real difference. She is trustworthy, loving, caring, and exactly the kind of person who helps create the supportive environment families want for their children.
That matters.
At Spotlight Acting School, shows like Finding Nemo KIDS are about much more than putting on something cute and familiar. They are about giving young children the chance to build confidence, practice teamwork, and experience the joy of performance in a way that feels exciting and accessible. Finding Nemo KIDS is exactly the kind of show that lets that happen. It is playful, energetic, and filled with opportunities for young performers to shine.
🧅 Looking Ahead to Shrek KIDS
And while Finding Nemo KIDS is the next show on deck, there is another bit of exciting news just behind it.
We recently finalized the contract for Shrek KIDS.
We have never done Shrek KIDS before, so that is a big moment for us. Auditions are planned for April 25 for ages 4 to 11, and that alone is enough to make me excited. Shrek KIDS brings Shrek, Donkey, Fiona, and a whole cast of fairy-tale characters together in a funny, heartfelt adventure about acceptance, friendship, and finding where you belong.
It is always exciting to know what is coming next. For the moment, though, the focus is entirely on Disney’s Finding Nemo KIDS and the young cast bringing that underwater adventure to life at Spotlight. It is another chance for children to grow, perform, and discover what they can do on stage. And it is one more reminder that there is always something new and exciting happening at Spotlight Acting School.
🗓️ Performance & Audition Details
- Performances: Disney’s Finding Nemo KIDS runs April 24–26 at The Spotlight Playhouse.
- Auditions: Shrek KIDS auditions are planned for April 25 for ages 4–11. More details will be announced soon.
- Tickets and information: thespotlightplayhouse.com
🖊️ About the Author
Dr. Chad Hembree has served as Executive Director of Spotlight Acting School, The Spotlight Playhouse, and Spotlight Performing Arts since 2013. Affectionately known as “Mr. Chad,” he is an accomplished performer and director who draws on his broad experience to guide students and staff with creativity, care, and a passion for making theater accessible to the Berea community.
📅 Upcoming Events in Berea & Beyond
🎭 Theater & Performance at The Spotlight Playhouse
(Tickets and info for all shows: thespotlightplayhouse.com)
- “Finally” A Broadway Revue (The Spotlight Players) — April 3–12
- The Booking Committee (The Bluegrass Players) — April 17–25
- Disney’s Finding Nemo KIDS (Ages 4–11) — April 24–26
🎶 Music & Concerts
- Jason Derulo Live (EKU Center for the Arts) — Fri., April 10 at 8:00 p.m.
- Berea College Bluegrass Ensemble Spring Concert (Berea College) — Sat., April 11 at 7:00 p.m.
🌿 Community, Arts & Outdoors
- Good Friday Service (Berea Baptist Church) — Fri., April 3 at 12:15 p.m.
- Easter Eggstravaganza (Lake Reba Park Softball Fields, Richmond) — Sat., April 4 at 11:00 a.m.
- Easter Sunrise Service (Berea Baptist Church) — Sun., April 5 at 7:00 a.m.
- Red Oaks Forest School Art Club (Forestry Outreach Center) — Sat., April 11 at 10:00 a.m.
- RECHARGE: Foster Care Summit (Lexington, KY) — Sat., April 18
- Mushroom Inoculation Workshop with ASPI (Forestry Outreach Center) — Sat., April 25