Courtesy photo Emma Nelson, Hayley Troutman, and Amelia Chouinard rehearse a scene from Charlotte’s Web. The play will be performed at the U.P. State Fairgrounds this week.

ESCANABA — The fair is coming to town a bit early this year through the magic of children’s theater. Charlotte’s Web, a play based on the beloved classic book written by E. B. White, will spring to life July 14-18.

“Charlotte’s Web is one of my favorite children’s stories and to see it come to life with the children of our community has absolutely blown my mind,” said Robin Gavriloff, the production stage manager.

Players de Noc has partnered with the U.P. State Fairgrounds to produce the memorable story of a very special pig named Wilbur (Bo Troutman) and his friend Charlotte (Merlot Williams), the spider who saves the day. The all-youth cast also includes the Arable Family: Fern (Aline Norkoli), Mrs. Arable (Mya Kressin), and Mr. Arable (Spencer Heitman) along with Mr. Zuckerman (Easton Kositsky), Mrs. Zuckerman (Jorja Heitman), Lurvy (Briahna Wetthuln), Templeton (Joshua Gartland), Goose (Hailey Sherman), Gander (Amelia Chouinard), Sheep (Emma Nelson), Lamb (Vanessa Mabie), Member 1 (Randi Irving), Member 2 (Addisyn Rice), and Member 3 (Anna Lemerand).

Sam Komay, who is the director and also a board member for Players de Noc, said, “Since rehearsals have begun, we have watched all of these young actors grow exponentially both on the stage and as wonderful young people. Our audiences are hungry for live theatre and Charlotte’s Web is the perfect appetizer for Players de Noc’s upcoming season.”

While Players de Noc has been producing virtual theater throughout the pandemic, this production of Charlotte’s Web marks the return to live theater with live audiences. The performance will be take place outdoors with bleacher seating at the Miracle of Life Building, which will be part of the backdrop for the family farm and the county fair in the story. Concessions will be available. General admission tickets (cash or check only) can be purchased at the Chamber of Commerce. Performances are July 14, 15,16,18 at 7 p.m. and July 17 and18 at 2 p.m.