NORWAY — The fifth annual Children’s Theater Workshop is busy preparing for their performance of Sally K. Albrecht and Jay Althouse’s musical, “The Best Little Theater in Town,” on Saturday, April 8, at 2 p.m. at the Second Congregational Church, Norway.

Since early January, a dedicated cast of 12 elementary and middle school students have been participating in the free weekly musical theater workshop, sponsored by the Second Congregational Church. They have battled bad weather, rehearsed songs, learned choreography and memorized lines, as well as practiced the stage craft of expressing their emotions. They have discussed and amassed props and costumes. But most of all, they had fun getting ready for their production.

According to the Director Shirli Allen Heald, some community members and family have asked if the show will be ready.

“At this age, it’s not all about being ready,” she said, smiling. “It will be wonderful and amusing. It may not go exactly according to the script, but it will be their show. A workshop experience is more about the process than a perfect production.”

Some of the children, ages nine to 14 years old from six surrounding towns, did not know one another before the Thursday workshops. Others have participated in previous workshops. They all have made new friends, practiced respect and compassion, and have helped each other with new theater skills. Some of the very shy participants have blossomed. Some of the bold have learned restraint. Parents have created costumes, amassed props and as the show approaches, they are now arriving a few minutes before the end of rehearsal, to watch some of the children’s accomplishments.

The public is invited to a free performance of “The Best Little Theater in Town,” on Saturday, April 8, at 2 p.m. at the Second Congregational Church, UCC, 205 Main St., Norway. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m.

In this musical, “two young narrators discuss the elements of a musical theater production in the fun-filled “play within a play.” The story unfolds as the small town theater company struggles to make ends meet. There is plenty of music, drama and more than enough comedy for everyone.

The production is directed by Shirli Allen and production assistance is provided by Sharon Hollowell and Jean Saunders. Ed Baldridge accompanies the troop on piano.

A light reception will follow the production and a donation basket will be available to those who wish to support the Children’s Theater Workshop.

The fifth annual Children’s Theater Workshop is busy preparing for their performance of Sally K. Albrecht and Jay Althouse’s musical, “The Best Little Theater in Town,” which will be performed April 8. Performing are, from left, Sara Davis, Hailey Pike, Lacey Tilsley, Skye Hebert, Faith Olson, Logan Hebert, Ella Tilsley, Joel Deane, Sylvie Gill. Absent: Nick Clough, Addie Harthorne.