Do you want to be part of the world under the sea? Students in grades three through 12 are invited to audition for "The Little Mermaid Jr." The show will be presented in June by Manheim Performing Arts Community Theatre (MPACT). Auditions will be held on Saturday, March 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Junction Center, 1875 Junction Road, Manheim.

"Participation is open to students from any school district, as this is a community organization," said Charito Faulkner, MPACT director and board president. Performers will sign up for an audition timeslot and should come prepared with a 30- to 60-second song and a 30- to 60-second monologue.

Charito and her husband, Karl, formed MPACT after volunteering for an organization called iStage Performing Arts. "Around 2018, the owners had to dissolve the organization for personal reasons, and we approached them to take over the organization," she recalled. "At the time, our son and daughter participated, and we couldn't imagine letting it go since we had seen the profound impact it had on our own children and other children in the community." The couple recruited other volunteers and rebranded to form the nonprofit MPACT.

The organization's mission is simple: to create a platform where both performers and community can unite, fostering a shared love and appreciation for the art of theater. "All levels of performers are welcome to join as MPACT is where you go to learn and grow," Charito said.

The organization currently rents space in a local church gym to practice, and performances are held at the Junction Center.

When she's not at MPACT, Charito is an elementary school teacher. She indulges her love of performing, including a background in chorus, cheerleading, color guard and musical performance, as a volunteer with MPACT. "The passion for performing has always been a part of me," she said. "When our children expressed interest in theater, my husband and I naturally became volunteers. Karl taught me the intricacies of set building, and I couldn't have undertaken this endeavor without his support."

Along with roles for performers, students are encouraged to participate as a member of the crew for "The Little Mermaid Jr." "There are chances to get involved backstage for students in grades seven through 12," Charito stated. "The behind-the-scenes efforts play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth production."

She hopes students will try out for the musical and encourages anyone who isn't already a part of MPACT to consider joining.

"Engaging in the program brings joy, and we welcome individuals of all skill levels," she said. "There's always a place for you in MPACT. Many participants have expressed feeling like part of a family."

For more information on auditions, visit http://www.manheimperformingarts.org/the-little-mermaid-jr. For more information on MPACT or serving behind the scenes, email manheimperformingarts@gmail.com.