The final performances of “Spongebob the Musical” will be staged at Schoolhouse Arts Center at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 5, and 2 p.m. Sunday, March 6. Contributed / Schoolhouse Arts Center

Last weekend to see ‘Spongebob’ at Schoolhouse Arts

The first production of “Spongebob the Musical” ever to be held in Maine opened the weekend of Feb. 24 at Schoolhouse Arts Center in an explosion of undersea fun and cheer. The cast, composed of around 20-30 members, maintained a palpable, enthusiastic energy throughout opening weekend as they sang, danced, tap-danced and won the audience with their collective spirit. 

The final performances are this weekend at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 5, and 2 p.m. Sunday, March 6.  

As he’s done for almost every show he’s overseen, Director Zac Stearn made sure to weave American Sign Language into the choreography and invited several interpreters to make performances more accommodating to the deaf community. 

The show made use of every aspect of the theatrical experience. There were colorful costumes, an amazing and intricate set and over 200 light cues. Stearn regarded it as “a production he will remember for years.” 

Sebago Lake Derby winners

The 21st annual Sebago Lake Ice Fishing Derby held Feb. 19 and 20 drew an estimated 900 participants. This year’s winners include Caleb Slocum of North Yarmouth for a 15.86-pound togue, Ben Carlin for a 9.48-pound pike, Greg Lachance for a 1.54-pound perch and Devin Prue for a 3.76-pound pickerel. Congratulations to all!

Initially created in 2001, the derby was used as a way to reduce invasive species of togue in Sebago Lake, which had threatened the populations of landlocked salmon competing for the same food and resources. The derby today is still used primarily as a fish management tool, but it has also evolved for friends and families in the community to come together and raise funds to benefit a good cause. Hosted by the Sebago Lake Rotary Club, the derby supports over 13 local food pantries, including the Preble Street food pantry in Portland. 

Basics of composting

Composting may not seem like much, but in terms of saving money, reducing land waste, replenishing soil and creating far more efficient fertilizers for plant growth, it does make a difference. A demonstration on backyard composting will be held from 7-8 p.m. Thursday, March 10, in the Watchic Lake Room at the Standish Municipal Center. The fee is $10 for all ages. Reduce trash output and sign up at standishrec.com.

Babysitter training course

Saint Joseph’s College is holding an American Red Cross babysitter training course from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 29. The course provides participants with knowledge of basic care, first aid and emergency preparedness – all the necessary skills needed to care for children in the absence of parents or guardians. The cost is $65 for Saint Joseph’s College students, faculty and staff, and $80 for community members. Contact Jared Felker at sjcaquatics@sjcme.edu or call 207-893-7666 for more details.

Emma Bennett can be reached at emmabennett923@gmail.com.