In an exciting blend of education and entertainment, some elementary school students in Chicago are diving into the magical world of Disney, thanks to a unique program. The Disney Stage Connect initiative is providing these young talents with the tools and resources necessary to bring Disney musicals to life on their school stage.
At Grover Cleveland Elementary, the atmosphere is buzzing with creativity as students prepare to embark on an underwater adventure with their production of “Finding Nemo: The Musical.” This opportunity is part of Disney’s commitment to fostering the arts in education, ensuring that young minds not only learn about theater but also experience the joy of performing.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
Each day after school, these budding performers gather to warm up and rehearse, filled with anticipation and enthusiasm for their upcoming show. The program is more than just an exercise in performing arts; it is a chance for these students to build confidence, work as a team, and immerse themselves in storytelling.
The Disney Musicals in Schools Stage Connect program offers educators a treasure trove of resources to guide students in producing these beloved tales. By engaging with this initiative, Chicago’s young performers are not only stepping into the spotlight but also experiencing the transformative power of the arts.
After school, students warm up before rehearsals get underway.
They’re putting on a stage production of “Finding Nemo,” a musical. The young cast members are eager to get started.
They take cues from Maria Xoy, a third-grade teacher who’s taking on the role of director.
“You can see how their confidence is slowly but surely building up. It’s really beautiful to see,” Xoy said.
The production is made possible by Disney Musicals in Schools’ Stage Connect program: an initiative that provides free resources, including scripts, music tracks and training to help schools produce their own musicals.
Educators are connected with Disney teaching artists through virtual coaching and curriculum support.
Third-grade teacher Rebecca Jungel applied to the Stage Connect program, and Cleveland elementary was selected along with dozens of other schools across the country.
“They sent all the materials that we needed. There are online courses that we took: fundamentals of musical theater, how to run a rehearsal, what auditions should look like,” Jungel said.
Owen Martinez, 11, knew he wanted to audition as soon as he heard about it.
“It was a feeling that something good was going to happen,” Martinez said.
For many of the students, this is their first time on stage. But they’re up to the challenge, like Jenesis Gimenez, who plays Marlin.
“Just try your hardest and have the best time of your life,” Gimenez said.
Isabel Mazon, 10, plays Nemo, and says the movie is one of her favorites.
“It’s very colorful and joyful,” Mazon said.
Amelia Weber, 10, is excited to play Dory.
“I really like playing the parts. And whenever I’m interacting with someone, I just feel like I am the character,” Weber said.
Xoy says this program has helped them not just put on a production, but also build a community.
“My hope and dream would be that every public school could have the opportunity to have this in their school,” Xoy said.
The school’s production of “Finding Nemo” takes place in May.
The deadline for schools to apply for Stage Connect for next school year is March 9.
The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of this ABC station.
Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.
