Dozens of local students will have their annual opportunity to perform with the Missoula Children’s Theatre next week when the Covington Arts Council presents “The Secret Garden.”

Based in Missoula, Mont., the MCG sends professional actor/directors to communities to audition and cast 50 to 60 local school children in a full-length, original musical production.

CAC executive director Paula Harr said auditions for students in first through 12th grades will be held beginning at 3:15 p.m. Mon., March 5. There is no need to prepare for the audition, Harr said.

“Students need to be able to speak loudly and clearly and to follow directions,” she said.

They also need to be available for rehearsal all week.

The Secret Garden, an original Missoula Children’s Theatre rendition, is a joyful retelling of a story of hope and a celebration of all good things in life. Mistress Mary Quite Contrary embarks on a journey from India to her uncle’s home in England. Along the way she makes friends with the hilarious Canadian Geese and the colorful Giant Bugs that Rock! In time she learns to appreciate everything around her, including the Moor Animals and the helpful Fireflies. Add to that a good healthy dose of caring, and what happens? Colin, Martha, Archibald – well the whole household – begin to enjoy the return of health and happiness in a garden carefully tended until it blossoms once more.

The Andalusia Junior Woman’s Club will sponsor a Secret Garden performance for fourth graders during the school day on Fri., March 9. The public performance is set for 6 p.m. on Sat., March 10, in the Dixon Center of LBWCC. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students.

The production is made possible in part by the Alabama State Council on the Arts. Covington Electric Cooperative is the corporate sponsor, and Southeast Alabama Gas District and Sunbelt Rentals are corporate donors.