an American theatre company flies into the Island for a whirl-wind visit.

Clindel Simmons, director of summer programmes for Higher Visions, said the youth organisation invited the Missoula Children's Theatre to Bermuda as a special summer treat for students.

"Every summer we put on something for students,'' Miss Simmons said. "This year we are bringing in the Missoula Children's Theatre from Montana.

"They have an excellent reputation and work wonders with children.'' MCT specialises in unique educational productions of classic children's stories and fairy tales.

Its mission is to develop life skills in children through participation in the performing arts, by enhancing their creativity, social skills, and self-esteem.

The theatre company, which has been in business for more than 25 years, will arrive on July 18 and begin auditions for cast members on July 19.

"They will be staging Sleeping Beauty,'' said Miss. Simmons. "The show will take place on July 24, so the students will have just under one week to learn their parts and rehearse.'' The tour team from the MCT will bring with them a set, lights, costumes, props, and make-up for the week-long pre-production.

Also included in week-long activities are four Enrichment Workshops for the general public presented by the tour's lead actors and directors.

Miss Simmons urged all young people between the ages of five and 18 to try out for a spot in the production.

"No prior acting experience is needed,'' she pointed out. "We are looking for between 50 and 60 performers.'' Auditions will take place at St. Paul's Centennial Hall in Hamilton, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on July 19.

"Anyone who wants to audition should come by at 9.30 a.m. so we can get your name, address and telephone number before we start,'' Miss Simmons added.

Rehearsals for next Saturday's performances will take place at the Ruth Seaton James Centre for Performing Arts at the Cedarbridge Academy.

The performance will be held on July 24 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Ruth Seaton James Centre for the Performing Arts.

Higher Visions was founded in 1997 by Rev. Emily Gail Dill to teach young people work and leadership skills.

Higher Visions provides training in leadership skills, job training, and career guidance. The organisation has also established a `Degrees of Excellence' scholarship and the Sleeping Beauty performance will help raise funds for that programme.

The MCT visit will also provide several young people with valuable on-the-job experience. Six Higher Visions youth leaders have been placed in various positions responsible for the promotion and marketing of the project.

Tickets for the Sleeping Beauty performance are $10 for children, $15 for adults and are available from the Christian Book Store and Dub City Records or by calling the Higher Vision Office at 236-9610.