Got a budding actor in the family? If so, the Covington Arts Council wants them to audition for the Missoula Children’s Theater production of The Little Mermaid.

There are approximately 50 roles available for children in kindergarten through 12th grade.

“This is one of the most popular events we sponsor every year,” said CAC Executive Director Paula Harr, “As soon as it’s over, the kids start asking when we are going to do it again. This year’s production is especially exciting.

“Everyone knows the story of The Little Mermaid; however, this performance has a little twist,” she said.

In this version, deep in the Sassafras Sea lives a little mermaid named “Callie” who lives for music. On the day of her 16th birthday, she and her three sisters are allowed one visit to the “world above” to learn the secrets of life on dry land.

“In this new version, there’s lots of music, lots of surprises and of course, a Prince Charming,” Harr said.

Auditions for the production will be held on Mon., Aug. 18, from 3:15 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the LBW Community College Dixon Center. All students are encouraged to audition. No advance preparation is necessary. Daily rehearsals will begin at 3:15 p.m. and last approximately four and a half hours per day Monday through Friday.

“A clear schedule is imperative for those who are chosen for roles,” Harr said. “It’s very fast paced and it’s wonderful to watch the kids take the fun of acting on stage so seriously and work hard to put on a great show. At the end of the week, they will perform for their fellow students and then on Saturday they will have the public performance at the Dixon Center.”

A public performance will be held on Fri., Aug. 22, at 7 p.m. at the Dixon Center. There will be a performance for fourth grade students on the same day at 10 a.m.