All-City musical set for Pau-Wa-Lu stage

Douglas County School District proudly presents the All-City musical "Once on This Island Jr.," written by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. The Caribbean-themed musical is based on Hans Christian Anderson's classic fairy tale "The Little Mermaid" and is adapted for the stage from Rosa Guy's book, "My Love, My Love."

This is a tale of true love crossing the social boundaries of class and race, and a testament of what a person is willing to do in order to follow their heart. With island flair, this non-stop musical energizes the stage with spirited dance numbers and compelling musical selections. The show is family-oriented and open to all ages.

The production stars students from Douglas High School, Carson Valley and Pau-Wa-Lu middle schools, as well as Minden, Gardnerville, and Meneley elementary schools. It is directed by Pau-Wa-Lu drama teacher Rich Garrett and choreographed by Carson High School junior Jessica Shull.

Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School music teacher Tammy Owens provides musical direction with vocal coaching by another Carson High School junior, Brynn Garrett. Local jazz artist and author Marshall Brodeur has arranged music for the production.

The Pau-Wa-Lu steel drum band will be performing both before the show and during intermission. In addition, the art department will display several student works for your viewing pleasure.

Barbecue pork or chicken sandwiches, island-style coleslaw and fruit kabobs are available a la carte or may be purchased as a dinner for $6.

Evening performances are scheduled for Feb. 27 and 28 as well as March 6 and 7, starting at 7 p.m. There will also be 2 p.m. matinees on March 1 and 8. All shows will be held at the Pau-Wa-Lu cafetorium, located at 701 Long Valley Road in the Gardnerville Ranchos.

Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $8 for students and seniors, and $6 for children 10 and under. For tickets or more information, call 265-6100 or e-mail director Rich Garrett at rgarrett@dcsd.k12.nv.us.

Training update

I'm in my fourth week of training for the Lake Tahoe Marathon weekend. The focus is still on intervals. After a brisk 5-minute warm-up walk, I jog from 1 to 3 minutes, with equivalent alternating periods of brisk walking for a total of 20-30 minutes. My shins seem to get sore pretty easily so I am really stretching my calves and making sure to rest between training days. Progress feels slow, but I can feel myself getting stronger.

I appreciate your notes and kind words of encouragement!

n Amy Roby can be reached at ranchosroundup@hotmail.com