The Yard is looking for a few energetic kids to share the stage with two all-star casts. Actors, dancers and singers in third through twelfth grade are invited.

The first event, Diversity in Dance ’08, will take place on Sunday, July 20, at the Performing Arts Center at 6:30 p.m., and will feature Taylor 2, Gus Solomons Jr and Carmen de Lavallade alongside a special dance performance by Island kids.

The second, Family Fun: The Yard at the Tabernacle, on Sunday, August 17, at 3 p.m., will be a variety program including comic music and dance featuring Yard festival artists and local stars, co-sponsored by The Yard and the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association.

There will be a modular rehearsal schedule designed to accommodate busy lives; children can participate in either or both performances. Participation is free.

Vineyard residents of all ages are invited to participate in the 2008 multi-generational performance project with Yard resident choreographer Sarah Wilbur. As part of the 2008 Bessie Schönberg residency, Ms. Wilbur will be creating a new piece using a journalistic approach fueled by the question: “What’s so funny?”

No movement or performing experience is required to participate in the creation of and/or perform in this project. Men, women, children, seniors, actors, dancers, athletes, writers, idea-makers and goofballs are welcome. Contact the Yard at 508-645-9662 or admin@dancetheyard.org for information or to get involved.