Works by such writers as A.A. Milne, William Gibson, Chad Henry and Carolyn Keene have been scheduled by San Diego Junior Theatre for its 53rd season. "This season, full of classics, will bring back special memories for both adults and children," said Will Neblett, executive/artistic director. "Nancy Drew, Girl Detective and The Magical Mrs. Piggle Wiggle will be SDJT premieres."

Nancy Drew will kick off the season Oct. 20-Nov. 5. Marisha Chamberlain adapted the popular children's series for the stage. Gibson's The Miracle Worker occupies the Jan. 5-21, 2001 slot. The drama is based on the life of Helen Keller.

Betty MacDonald's The Magical Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle, which is about a friendly neighbor who lives in an upside-down house and solves problems with magic, will be performed Feb. 23-March 11, followed by School House Rock Live April 13-29. The song and dance show brings the 70s to life again. The fifth show of the season will be the perennial favorite Winnie-the-Pooh. The adaptation of the Milne classic runs July 6-22. Final show on the schedule is the musical Guys and Dolls, Aug. 3-12.

SDJT was recently awarded with a $10,000 grant from the Rueben H. Fleet Foundation for expansion of the Conservancy Program designed for high-achieving 10th-12th graders who are interested in pursuing the performing arts in college.

San Diego Junior Theatre is located in Balboa Park. For tickets and information call (619) 239-8355. -- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent