Pied Piper Theatre will present 'Gepetto and Son' this weekend

Disney's "Gepetto and Son" comes to the stage starting this weekend, when the Center for the Arts' Pied Piper Theatre presents the newest version of the enchanting story of Pinocchio.

In an entertaining trip backward in time, the Blue Fairy and Geppetto take a look at what really happened during Pinocchio's change from puppet to boy. Rejoice with the Blue Fairy (Molly Kaufman), who is elated over her 100 percent success rate at granting wishes. But also follow along with Geppetto (Jonathan Cuesta), who is not quite sure he got the perfect boy he wished for.

Twelve-year-old David Capen of Gainesville is featured as Pinocchio, while PPT veteran Andrew Perry, a sophomore at Brentsville High School, appears as Stromboli.

Local actors also include Ilesa Bauer, Danielle Corley, Audrey Gregoire, Elizabeth Martin, Andrew Perry, Rachel and Katie Rollins and Jamie and Nicolette Smith of Bristow; David Capen, Amber Hayes, Burke Romans-Murray and Mitchell Gillin of Gainesville and Haymarket.

A cast of more than 40 of the area's most talented young actors entertain with song, dance and drama, while additional PPT members, including parent volunteers, provide back-stage and technical coordination, sets and costumes.

Musical highlights include "When You Wish Upon a Star" and "I Got No Strings" with additional music and lyrics by Broadway composer Stephen Schwartz.

Directed by Jann Crawford and musically directed by Annette Fakoury, "Gepetto and Son" runs Saturdays, Jan. 23 and 30 at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays, Jan. 24 and 31 at 4 p.m. The snow date is Feb. 6.

The play will be presented at Gar-Field High School, 14000 Smoketown Road, Woodbridge.

Tickets cost $8 in advance at Music & Arts Center outlets or online at www.center-for-the-arts.org. Tickets can also be purchased at the door for $9. Group tickets are available by calling 703-330-ARTS.

In preparation for its next production, "Beauty and the Beast," the PPT will hold auditions Feb. 12 and 13 at the Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory, 9419 Battle St., Manassas.

Actors, singers and dancers ages 8 to 18 are needed for this popular Broadway musical, which will be performed Saturdays and Sundays from May 8 to 16.

Vince Worthington will direct, and Laura Boyles will serve as music director.

Rehearsals are scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Auditions are by appointment only by calling 703-330-2787.

"How to Audition" classes are being offered Feb. 9 to 11 for those interested in improving their audition skills. Register for classes online at www.cen ter-for-the-arts.org.

-- Katherine Gotthardt