On Stage: "Junie B," "Romeo & Juliet" and much more

   My pal Dave Lavender checks in with a terrific story in today's Herald-Dispatch about the shows coming up this weekend, including First Stage's Junie B. Jones the Musical and Marshall University's Romeo and Juliet.

   You can read the full story right here (and there's a great photo gallery of shots from "Junie B." here.

   Here's an excerpt from the story:

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   All the world's a stage, and definitely this weekend all the Tri-State as well.

   Here's a look at some must-see theater around the region from Shakespeare in love to a delightful romp through the world of Junie B. Jones.

   Fresh off the heels of "Without Strings" last month, The First Stage Theatre Company is back in business again bringing to life a famous children's book series in "Junie B. Jones, The Musical," as adapted from the best-selling books by Barbara Park.

   First Stage will present the musical, created by Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich, at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 15 and 16, and at 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 16 and 17.

   Directed by Amy Browning with musical direction by Christopher Bowling, the musical is based on "Junie B. Jones Is A Graduation Girl," "Junie B. Jones First Grader at Last!," "Junie B. Jones First Grader Boss of Lunch," "Junie B. Jones First Grader Toothless Wonder," "Top Secret Personal Beeswax" and "A Journal By Junie B. (And Me)" by Barbara Park.

   The musical explores Junie B.'s first day of first grade, a day filled with changes - Junie's friend Lucille doesn't want to be her best pal anymore, and on the bus, Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. In addition, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard, and her teacher Mr. Scary thinks she may need glasses. Throw in a friendly cafeteria lady, a kickball tournament and a "Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal," and first grade has never been more exciting.

   Tickets are available at the door or by calling the ticket line at 304-416-5437. Tickets $10; $8 for children 12 and under. For more info visit www.firststagetheatre.org.