The mini-thespians of the Pam Ware Children’s Musical Theatre Workshop are ready to showcase their talents in a production of "Captain Louie, Jr."

"It’s a fun show," said Isaac Hopkins, a rising Gainesville High School senior and the show’s stage manager.

"It’s a very colorful set and a really upbeat performance."

The storyline follows the plight of young Louie, who has recently moved with his family to a new neighborhood. The kids there aren’t so nice in the beginning, but by the end of the story, they’ve all become pals.

"This story has a really great message," said Michelle Alexander, who is the co-music director for the production.

"It teaches kids to be more accepting of others, even if they are different."The show is directed by Pam Ware and features "very singable music" and lots of lively dance numbers, Alexander says.

To participate in the theater workshop, students had to audition back in January. They were given their lines and songs to learn before showing up for the first day of the Gainesville Parks and Recreation workshop, which was Monday.

Overall, the group will have 18 hours together for rehearsals before the first performance on Wednesday.

"It’s been very intense. They really had to learn everything very quickly," said Charleston Troutman, the show’s choreographer

There will be four performances of "Captain Louie, Jr.," 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday. Tickets for the show are $10 for adults or $5 for children and seniors. They can be purchased at the door, or in advance at the Gainesville Civic Center, 830 Green St.