Panola College has been invited to participate in the American Readers Theatre Association’s (ARTA) convention and national tournament May 4-6 in Los Angeles California.

Panola’s entry, "All in the Family" is a compilation of literature put together by Freddy Mason about dysfunctional families. The theatre is directed by Liz Hedges of the theatre department and Mason of the speech department.

The theme of the ARTA convention is "Where speech and theatre converge…ART is bound to happen." Mason observes, "This theatre earned the right to participate in the national tournament in the fall when Mrs. Hedges took the group to the Great Plains Readers Theatre Tournament. Panola College was one of only two community colleges entered in the contest. Showing against universities, the team was awarded second place, but after retallying the ballots, it was determined that the Panola College Theatre Team was actually the winner.

Mrs. Hedges says," The production is available for public performances if a program is needed before May"; however, Mr. Mason warns, "The material is for mature audiences and is stark in its portrayal of dysfunctional families". If you wish to schedule a performance, call (903) 693-2064 or (903) 693-2095. The public is encouraged to visit our website at www.panola.cc.tx.us and to click on the "Fine Art Calendar" link for information about upcoming events.