South Coast Rep's Bad Water Blues: A Coral Reef Mystery by Richard Hellesen (with music by Michael Silversher) has had its tour of southland schools extended, thanks to significant charitable contributions from the Boeing Company, California Arts Council and Capital Group. The show, which addresses the highly topical issue of our threatened coastal waters, was originally scheduled to tour through April 8, 2001, but has been extended to April 28.

According to SCR's Young Conservatory director Sheila Hillinger, "Even with the extension, available openings are going fast. We suggest booking as soon as possible to assure that the children in your school will have an opportunity to see this very lively—and important—new production."

It was Bad Water Blues' subject matter that prompted underwriting support from diverse sources, including Boeing. SCR trustee Jean Medlin said, "As a representative of Boeing on SCR's Board of Trustees and as a member of the theatre's Education and Outreach Committee, I feel this exposure for young children to experience and participate in a professional theatre production is a wonderful addition to their education."

Bad Water Blues opens with a problem at the Buena Vista Seashell Club. Members of an underwater group called the Back Bay Boys are mysteriously losing their voices and need someone to find out why. Undersea detective Coral Reef comes to the rescue, travelling through various levels of the ocean, up to the beach through the drainage pipes, and finally to the source of the problem.

The show is suitable for elementary schools (K-6). It can be set up and ready to go in 30 minutes either inside the school or on its grounds. Running time is 45 minutes. In advance, schools receive a Study Guide to help teachers and students get the most out of attending the production.For information and bookings call the SCR Education Office at (714) 708-5549.

-- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent