The “Austin Remembers” editor is working with a grant to celebrate Minnesota’s sesquicentennial by bringing the book as well as “Albert Lea Remembers” to the stage this fall.

The two cities’ own sesquicentennial books will be combined for a musical with performances in Albert Lea and in Austin.

Joan Claire Graham edited the “Remembers” books for the cities of Albert Lea and Austin.

The books contain the reminisces of each community’s residents about life Albert Lea and Austin.

Auditions for “Tales of Two Counties,” based on stories written by residents of Mower and Freeborn Counties will be held at the following times and places:

Sunday, July 13, at the Marion Ross Performing Arts Center, 141 N. Broadway, Albert Lea at 5:30 p.m.

Sunday, July 13 at Austin Public Library at 7:30 p.m.

Monday, July 14 at the Marion Ross Performing Arts Center in Albert Lea at 7 p.m.

According to the director, auditioners should come prepared to sing a one-minute song of their choice.

“If you play a musical instrument, please bring that so you can briefly demonstrate your skill,” Graham said. “We will have an accompanist if you bring sheet music.

“We need men and women of all ages, a couple of children and a barbershop quartet,” she added. “Actors who do not sing are welcome to audition also.”

Rehearsals will start Sept. 2, and performances at The Marion Ross Performing Arts Center and Paramount Theatre will run from Oct. 16 to 26.

This project is co-sponsored by the State of Minnesota Sesquicentennial Committee, the Albert Lea Friends of the Library and the Austin Friends of the Library.

For more information, contact Graham at (507) 377-1255 or Jeanne Steinbrink at Austin Public Library 433-2391.