T-R PHOTO BY SARA JORDAN-HEINTZ The Marshalltown Community Theatre’s presentation of “Ramona Quimby” opens Saturday at the Martha-Ellen Tye Playhouse. Pictured are the play’s stars Ava Hendricks, left, who plays Ramona, and Sydney Hotchkiss, right, who plays her sister Beezus.

The characters from the beloved children’s book series will come alive during the Marshalltown Community Theatre’s presentation of “Ramona Quimby,” with performances on Feb. 11 and 18 at 7:30 p.m., and matinees Feb. 12 and 19 at 2 p.m. at the Martha-Ellen Tye Playhouse.

The play, aimed at families, but fun for all ages, tells the story of Ramona Quimby, described as an “unpredictable, exasperating, boisterous and independent child” who has just begun third grade. She finds trouble with her teacher, clashes with older sister Beezus, worries about her Aunt Bea’s upcoming marriage and is affected by the loss of her father’s job. But as the child faces these challenges head-on, she learns some valuable life lessons, while Beezus narrates.

“We started a tradition of doing a children’s play during the winter months,” said the play’s director

Peggy Schoer. “I considered several plays to do, but I’ve always liked the Ramona character, so that’s what we went with.”

The cast started rehearsing the first part of January. While Schoer has worked in the theater for over 30 years, this is her first time directing a play consisting of a mainly child cast.

“The kids are fantastic. They’re all troopers and hit their marks, learning their lines immediately,” Schoer said. “The only struggles we’ve had are working around busy schedules and of course sickness this time of year.”

The role of Ramona Quimby is being played by Ava Hendricks; Beezus Quimby played by Sydney Hotchkiss; Dorothy Quimby played by Laura Stansberry; Bob Quimby played by Dan Vellinga and Aunt Bea played by Shelly Tuttle. Allison Fisher plays three roles: Mrs. Griggs, Selma and the lady in the commercial. There are several additional supporting characters.

Assistant director and stage manager duties are performed by Karen Roessler. Her husband Frank Roessler is in charge of lighting and set design.

“Karen and Frank have been really instrumental with this play, and we’re very thankful,” Schoer said.

The play is based on the “Ramona Quimby” books by Beverly Cleary, and was dramatized by Len Jenkin.

“The storyline is a combination of all her books,” Schoer said. “If you’re familiar with the books, you can pick up on little things.”

Tickets cost $15 for adults, $10 for students and kids 12 and under are $5. This play is on the season ticket. The box office is open from noon to 2 p.m. Monday-Saturday by calling 641-752-4164, and one hour before each show starts. To learn more, visit www.marshalltowncommunitytheatre.org.