Arts briefs: Dog theme chosen for 'Hastings Reads'

A dog's-eye view of the world is the theme of this year's "Hastings Reads" program, a communitywide initiative that encourages residents of all ages to read and share ideas about books with a common theme.

Events in conjunction with the program run through March, including a visit from a team of sled dogs and an author visit. The books are: for adults, "The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein, the heart-wrenching and sometimes comic story of a dog adopted by an aspiring race-car driver -- told from the dog's point of view; for teens, "Racing in the Rain: My Life as a Dog," Stein's adaptation of the novel for younger readers; for kids, "On the Road" by Lucy Nolan, about the antics of two canine pals; and for preschoolers, "Emmy of Whistling Well Farm" by Charlie Johnson, in which a dog walks youngsters through an autumn day on the farm.

Special activities include a chance to learn about mushing, 11-11:30 a.m. Feb. 2; a showing of the film "Snow Dogs" at 12:30 p.m. Feb. 2; and a search-and-rescue dog demonstration at 6 p.m. March 5. All of those events are at the library, 1490 S. Frontage Road.

Also planned is a talk and book signing by Stein at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at Hastings Middle School.

Residents are encouraged to write a short story or poem with an animal as the narrator. Submissions will be accepted from Feb. 4-19.

For details, see www.hastings reads.com.

Auditions for April comedy play are setExpressions Community Theater will hold auditions for six parts in the madcap comedy "Wage Warfare" on Feb. 4-5 at the Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Av. in Lakeville.

Auditions will be held at 7 p.m. and will consist of readings from the script. No appointment is necessary. For more information, e-mail JAndrewWilkins@gmail.com or call 612-293-0173.

The play runs April 12-14 and 19-21.