Stage Door Productions’ popular summer children’s theater is back, and this year will bring “Moana Jr.” to the stage.

In its 13th annual summer production, area youth will have an opportunity to bring to life through dialogue and song Disney favorite characters Moana, Maui, Gramma Tala, Chief Tui, Tamatoa, Pua, and even Hei Hei the chicken.

“Involvement in theater programs helps students build confidence, communication skills, and teamwork through creative expression,” said Shelly Bottorff, founder and president of Stage Door Productions. “Theater fosters empathy and emotional intelligence by encouraging students to step into different perspectives and stories. It also provides a safe space for self-discovery and personal growth, enriching both academic and social development.”

Leading Stage Door Productions’ creative team for “Moana Jr.” are veteran Director Alyssa Sparks, Music Director Megan Cassady, and Choreographer Emily Eastwood.

“After seven years of being the music director for Stage Door summer shows, it is always such a fun journey the students go on,” said Cassady. “Most start out timid and shy and by the first show, they are singing and dancing their hearts out. I love seeing the development of musicianship and confidence in each performer and it’s truly a remarkable experience for all students.”

Auditions for lead and ensemble roles in “Moana Jr.” are scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday and Monday. at First United Methodist Church in Fort Dodge. Audition packets including dialogue and songs are available online at StageDoorFD.org/Moana-Jr.

The summer children’s production will be performed on July 17-19 at Decker Auditorium in the Center for Performing Arts at Iowa Central Community College.

‘Moana Jr.’ auditions

May 18-19, 6-8 p.m.

First United Methodist Church, Fort Dodge

Audition packets available online at StageDoorFD.org