Neighborhood news: Kids, teens audition for 'Aladdin Jr.'

The Center for the Arts Pied Piper Theatre has announced auditions for its opening musical theatre production of the 2009-10 season.

Director Vince Worthington will cast actors, singers and dancers ages 8 to 18 for Disney's "Aladdin Jr." on Sept. 11 and 12 with callbacks Sept. 13. Performances are scheduled for Nov. 14 through 22 in Manassas.

Auditions are by appointment only and will be held at the center at 9419 Battle St., Manassas. "How to Audition" classes are available Sept. 8, 9 and 10 for those needing to brush up on auditioning skills.

Call the Center for the Arts at 703-330-2787 to schedule an audition appointment or to sign up for audition classes.

For more information on auditions for the upcoming Pied Piper Theatre productions of Disney's "Geppetto & Son" and "Beauty and the Beast," visit www.center-for-the-arts.org.

'Whens, Wheres, Ups & Downs' brunch slated

The Bull Run Women's Connection invites you and your friends to its brunch event, "Whens, Wheres, Ups & Downs" on Sept. 14 at Stonewall Golf Club from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

The featured speaker is Jack St. Clair with Home Instead Senior Care. St. Clair will educate attendees about the "whens and where of caregiving." Speaker Faye Parson will talk about "insecurity in a topsy-turvy world." Graham Clark will provide music.

Brunch is $14 inclusive. Reservations are required and must be honored or canceled prior to the event. Complimentary, on-site care for children 4 months to 8 years old will be available.

To make reservations and/or arrange child care, call Linda Smith at 703-216-2469, or e-mail bullrunwomenconnect@verizon.net by Sept. 10.

Stonewall Golf Club is located at 15601 Turtle Point Drive, Gainesville.

This event is sponsored by Christian Women's Club of Stonecroft Ministries.

Plan early to take a Halloween Safari

The Bull Run Mountains Conservancy wants to take you on a nighttime hike through the Bull Run Mountains. Go on a Halloween Safari with a guide who will lead you along the trail, where you will meet native "wildlife" that perform amazing natural history skits. Face painting, Halloween snacks, hot cider, a bonfire and live music will add to the fun.

There is a new cast of animals each year, so if you have attended in the past, don't skip this year. All participants should bring a flashlight and wear good walking shoes.

Dates for the event are Oct. 17, 7 to 8:30 p.m.; Oct. 23, 7 to 8:30 p.m.; and Oct. 24, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Tickets are $7 in advance or $10 at the door. Pre-registration is required for the 7 to 8 p.m. tour slots.

Volunteers are needed, and donations and sponsors are welcome. For reservations, or to volunteer or sponsor, contact BRMC at 703-753-2631 or info@brmconservancy.org. For more information, see www.brmconservancy.org.

Katherine Gotthardt reports your neighborhood news from the Gainesville and Haymarket area every Wednesday in the News & Messenger. If you have news about birthdays, your family, your club or your HOA's activities, please send it to Katherine at kgotthardt@comcast.net.