Dorothy's Adventures in Oz, a musical comedy for children, will open April 8 at the Santa Monica Playhouse and play every Saturday and Sunday afternoon through October 1. The adaptation by Chris DeCarlo and Evelyn Rudie of L. Frank Baum's classic story is directed by Cheryl Jennings. Lighting and set design are by James Cooper, costume design by Ashley Hayes.

Presented by the Playhouse's Family Theatre Musical Matinee series, the show brings to life Dorothy and her companions as they traverse the windy road to that "mystical place where dreams really do come true." Along the way they meet up with the vain but beautiful Queen Coo-ee-oh, a vagabond princess who is revolting (though she doesn't look it), a Shaggy Man and a Rainbow Girl, learn a great deal about the world around them, and even a little bit about themselves.

In related Playhouse news, DeCarlo announced that the long running Jerry Mayer comedy Almost Perfect has been extended again, through June 4. The show has been playing to SRO houses ever since last November. The cast features Bill Ackerman, Donald Bishop, Susan Davis, Wendy Michaels, Albie Selznick and Jamie Michelle Gallo, who recently succeeded Heidi Anderson in the role of "Boots" Clark, the sensual third side of the story's romantic triangle.

Santa Monica Playhouse is located at 1211 Fourth St. in Santa Monica. For tickets and information call (310) 394-9779 or visit santamonicaplayhouse.com or www.seatadvisor.com

-- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent