The largest cast in the three-year history of the BrookhavenLittle Theatre Children’s Drama Camp will present a tale of Westernfolklore Thursday and Friday at 7 p.m. at The Haven.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with $5 tickets sold on a firstcome, first served basis while seating lasts for “Wild Pecos Bill,”said Jana Russell, camp director.

“This is the biggest and youngest group we’ve ever had,” shesaid.

A majority of the 42 children participating in the two-week campare first- and second-graders, Russell said. The camp was open forstudents entering grades one through six.

“This is the toughest play they’ve had to learn,” she said.”There are more lines, longer scenes and a larger cast. It’s been alot to throw at the kids, but they’ve been outstanding.”

Russell has been assisted by a cadre of mostly teenagecounselors, many of whom have attended the camp in the past. Thecounselors help the participants learn stagecraft, lines, buildprops and create costumes for the two performances.

The pace is fast, but fun, she said.

“It’s phenomenal what they can accomplish in two weeks,” Russellsaid. “These kids are doing in two weeks what it takes us adultssix to eight weeks to do.”

“Wild Pecos Bill” features a collection of six different talltales and legends about the Texas cowboy. Pecos Bill has beencredited in folklore with creating the Grand Canyon and ropingtornadoes. He is usually accompanied by his faithful steed,Widowmaker, which no one else can ride.

The performance is a little more than an hour in length, Russellsaid.

Proceeds from the performances will benefit the “Save The Haven”campaign to restore the historic community theater.