Dateline: Lexington, October 1966. Kathy gives a hoot.

Fourth grade thespians will be staging their rendition of "The Owl Who Lost His Hoot" later this month at Mary Todd Elementary School. In spite of the title of the production, Kathy Michael will play the lead character "Owl". "We really only have one boy in the class who has the talent and skill for such a demanding role." explains Mrs. Marie Frick, producer, director, and teacher. "But we thought Tim Hurst's unique talents would be best utilized in the role of Scarecrow instead."

The Halloween play is the story of an owl that becomes disabled by the loss of his, or in the case of this production, her "hoot". The owl's friends, a motley collection of ghosts, witches, and other quasi-satanic beings lead by the congenial Scarecrow, rally together to recover Owl's hoot before the all-important Halloween evening. "I have always liked and admired birds of prey", says Kathy, "and I am proud to portray one in this production."

But not all of the fourth grade actors are as happy with their parts. "I play a pumpkin", says Judy Hunter. "I think it's not a very challenging role for me. The pumpkin is stationary, no movement at all. It just SITS there!" "But, it really is a pivotal role in the play" corrects Frick; "Pumpkin is their spokesperson, and we really needed Judy's strong voice for that important character." One student compared her current role to the one she tackled in the 3rd grade. "LAST year, for our Easter Parade, I got to be a ballet dancing flower!" quips Diane Holland, "But in this play, I have to portray one of the ghosts. The ghosts don't really dance at all in this play. They just sort of run around the stage. I mean, it is REALLY afflicted." "Yeah, that flower ballet last year WAS cool", sighed Ralph Mancik, "And in that show I got to water her and all of the other flowers, to make them come alive and dance! I was the rain on the parade that year."

Mrs. Frick admits that some students may be experiencing disappointment, but adds that they understand the limits imposed by the authors of suitable plays. "We are lucky to be doing a Halloween play at all. Fortunately this is the groovy 60's and the Religious Right has yet to demonize Halloween." says Frick.

But the fourth grade kids are really pulling together and the disappointment doesn't show. Says Diane: "Maybe next year, I can play a pilgrim or at least an Indian." "Yeah" agrees Ralph, "Maybe NEXT year I can be a pilgrim, too, or maybe even a comedian or a jester of some sort." Ralph, who plays "Goblin" in this year's Halloween production commented on his current role: "I don't understand my character at all; just what the heck IS a goblin anyway?" Frick went on to explain that goblins are basically small pests who go around bothering people. "Well that's gonna be a stretch for me, I'm afraid." says Ralph. Frick had no further comment.

The play is free and will be open to the general public. However, seating will be limited and will be made available to parents and to the other non-participating students before the general public will be admitted. Photography will be allowed during the performance and a special photo session in Mrs. Frick's classroom is being considered.