Back by popular demand, the Missoula Children's Theatre (MCT) returns to Moore County to direct the production of "The Little Mermaid."

The audition date is Monday, Sept. 18, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., at the Sunrise Theater (250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines). All those auditioning should arrive promptly at 3:30 p.m. and plan to stay for the full two hours. Some cast members will be asked to stay for a rehearsal immediately following the auditions.

Among over 50 roles to be cast are: The Little Mermaid, Celia, her three sisters, Delia, Amelia, and Ophelia; Gil, the Merboy next door; the Royal family including, the Prince, the King and the Queen; the poetic Town Criers, dynamic Scouts, snoopy Seasiders, and galloping Seahorses. ssistant directors will also be cast to aid in rehearsals throughout the week and to take on essential backstage responsibilities.

"Although we cannot guarantee that everyone who auditions will be cast in the play, we can guarantee a lot of fun," says a spokesman.

MCT's touring productions are complete with costumes, scenery, props and makeup. Rehearsals will be conducted every day from 3:30 to 8 p.m. (Sept. 18-22) at the Sunrise Theater. Although not all cast members will be needed at every rehearsal, those auditioning must have a clear schedule for the entire week and if selected, be able to attend all rehearsals for their role. A detailed rehearsal schedule will be distributed at the conclusion of the auditions.

"The Little Mermaid" will be presented Friday, Sept. 22, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 23, at 3 and 7 p.m. at the Sunrise Theater. Tickets, at $5 for ACMC members, and $8 for nonmembers, may be purchased in advance at Campbell House (482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines) or at the box office 30 minutes prior to show time.

MCT's residency is presented by the Arts Council of Moore County and sponsored by Time Warner Cable and the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency funded by the State of North Carolina and the National Endowment for the Arts.

For additional information, call the Arts Council at 910-692-4356 or visit www.artscouncil-moore.org.