The Barn Theatre, the Augusta, MI, institution where Marin Mazzie, Jonathan Larson and other Broadway talents cut their teeth, began its 2000 season June 13 with Ray Cooney's farce, It Runs in the Family, which continues to June 25.

This season, the Barn has increased its stage size, adding 20 feet the stage-left wing space, to allow for larger sets and shows. The nearby "rehearsal shed" bar/cabaret is still offering songs and spirits (the annual revue, Music! Music! Music! played there May 30-June 11).

The Barn season also includes Grease (June 27-July 9), Evita (July 11-July 23), Father of the Bride (July 25-Aug. 6), Some Like It Hot or West Side Story (Aug. 8-20), My Fair Lady (Aug. 22-Sept. 3), To Be Announced (Sept. 5-10).

The Barn Theatre is on Highway M-96, one mile west of Augusta, in western Michigan. Brendan and Jack Ragotzy are resident producers. For information, call (616) 731-4121 or try the website at www.BarnTheatre.com.

-- By Kenneth Jones