The Cast of “Finn.” Photo by Teresa Wood.
Throughout its illustrious history, the Kennedy Center has been the site of several world premiere productions. The underwater-themed musical, “Finn,” is the newest of these, debuting as part of the storied venue’s “Theater for Young Audiences” series. From the creator of the hit Disney Junior TV shows, “Doc McStuffins” and “Vampirina,” Emmy® winner Chris Nee, this family-friendly play features a book, music, and lyrics by Nee, Michael Kooman (and dance arrangements and underscoring), and Christopher Dimond. Splendidly directed by Adrienne Campbell-Holt, (music direction by Nathan Beary Loughstein), “Finn” takes audiences on an emotional, multi-sensory journey presented by a talented cast.
Splendidly directed by Adrienne Campbell-Holt…an emotional, multi-sensory journey presented by a talented cast…will both captivate young children and stir profound emotions in adults.
This undersea tale tells the story of Finn (Dylan Toms), a young shark who dreams of following in his family’s footsteps by becoming a member of the Shark Guard. Led by Finn’s older sister, Aggie (Caelyn D. Williams), the Shark Guard’s strict discipline and bossy attitudes blatantly clash with Finn’s innately kind personality. The other members of the Shark Guard, Roscoe (Deimoni Brewington), Lola (Jamie Goodson), and Bruce (Ben Ribler), do not take well to Finn’s unconventionality. Along the way, Finn befriends Seasil (Kalen Robinson), a royal tang fish who also desires to go against the grain by performing a unique dance at the town jubilee, much to the dismay of her traditional Auntie (Kara-Tameika Watkins). Seasil is the only individual in Finn’s life who accepts him for who he is, and he finds solace in this positive reception and true friendship.
As the titular shark, Toms’ heartwarming and outstanding performance was brilliant. His bright, engaging tenor voice was the perfect vehicle for his heartfelt songs. He poignantly expressed Finn’s internal conflict of longing to be himself while conforming in order to be accepted. Robinson was animated and outgoing as Seasil, and her powerhouse vocals were an excellent match for the character’s expressive personality. Her bold physical comedy and wacky dancing were tremendously entertaining, and she showcased an exceptional stage presence. With a vibrant singing voice that ably executed complex riffs and runs, Williams was spectacular as Aggie. She personified the character with an authoritative presence, and her brassy speech amusingly conveyed this spirit. Watkins portrayed Auntie’s steadfast nature with a snappy delivery and a strong singing voice, comedically communicating the character’s unwillingness to accept new ideas. Goodson exhibited a confident presentation depicting Lola’s competitiveness, and Ribler’s exaggerated gestures and facial expressions effectively illustrated Bruce’s over-the-top personality. In a standout performance, Brewington humorously articulated Roscoe’s surprisingly brash and impulsive nature through his natural enthusiasm, frequently eliciting spirited laughter from the audience.
Upon entering the Kennedy Center’s 320-seat Family Theater, the audience was immediately immersed in the musical’s underwater setting. Flowing ocean waves were projected on the walls, floor, and seating areas, accompanied by a peaceful soundtrack of water and nautical sound effects. You-Shin Chen’s whimsical set design was stunning, featuring billowing seaweed and a variety of bubbles. Curtains in multiple shades of blue adorned the stage, which was filled with neon multi-colored sea creatures and plants. This visual delight was further enhanced by Patrick W. Lord’s amazingly lifelike projections of the aquatic world, depicting raging water, swaying plants, and animated fish. Lighting Designer, E-hui, colorfully signified the plot, illuminating the stage in an array of azure hues and also using ominous red lights and oppressive darkness to represent danger.
Billy Bustamante’s choreography encompassed many styles of dance from ballet to calypso. From the stealthy movement of the sharks to the carefree swimming of the fish, the actors performed these routines with fluid movement and effortless ease. Props Designer, Luke Hartwood, exquisitely designed numerous ornate puppets for this production. His designs consisted of schools of fish made from PVC pipes, individual fish made from foam hand puppets, and illuminated jellyfish rod puppets made from umbrellas. Ann Closs-Farley’s elaborate costume design featured vivid colors, glittering sequined fabrics, and a varied collection of materials from fuzz to denim and chiffon to feathers. Her attention to detail on the costumes was extraordinary, and this was reflected in the placement of fish scales on the outfits, the protruding dorsal fins on the sharks, and the realistic eyes on the fish headpieces.
“Finn” is a deeply moving musical that will both captivate young children and stir profound emotions in adults. The provoking themes and clear messages that this show conveys will allow audiences to relate to belonging and fitting in with societal norms. Those who decide to “swim” on over to the Kennedy Center will enjoy this theatrical journey for the entire family. Audience members are sure to walk away with a changed outlook.
Running Time: Approximately one hour with no intermission.
Advisory: Most enjoyed by ages 5+. Contains fog and haze effects.
“Finn” runs through December 22, 2024 at the Kennedy Center (Family Theater), 2700 F St., NW, Washington, D.C. 20566. Performances are Fridays at 7 p.m. (except Friday, November 29, which will have two shows at 1:30 and 4 p.m.) and Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 and 4 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, call (202) 416-8540 or (800) 444-1324 (Toll-Free), visit the Box Office in person, or go online.
